Here are some resources we found helpful when diving into this topic

Dog Walking, the Human–Animal Bond and Older Adults’ Physical Health 
Angela L Curl, PhD, MSW, Jessica Bibbo, MA, Rebecca A Johnson, PhD, RN, FAAN, FNAP
The Gerontologist, Volume 57, Issue 5, October 2017, Pages 930–939,
Published: 19 March 2016

"Animals can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and increase social interaction and physical activity...Pets can also have an astounding effect on symptoms of depression and feelings of loneliness."
Aging Care: The Healing Power of Pets for Seniors 

The Health Benefits of Pets
Cleveland Clinic: Health Essentials, February 9, 2023.

Pet Ownership May Delay Cognitive Decline in Older Adults
By Sara Ventiera, AARP, Home & Family
Published March 21, 2022

Depression, loneliness, and pet attachment in homebound older adult cat and dog owners
Journal of Mind and Medical Sciences, 4(1):38-48, March 2017

“The risk for falls requiring emergency room care increases with age. Each year, 2.5 million people ages 65 and older are treated in emergency departments because of falls, according to the CDC.”
Everyday Health: The 15 Most Common Health Concerns for Seniors, 
By Madeline R. Vann, MPH, LPC, EverydayHealth.com, Updated August 1, 2016.