The twenty-first century has ushered in more than a vast array of new technology, it has also invited a deadly virus that has caused more than physical, and financial devastation, it has also caused a lot of psychological destruction as well. Seniors have been the target of most of the devastation through either Covid-19 or isolation, but technology may have also offered the solution for loneliness and isolation.
An October 4, 2020 article “Robot Dogs Can Help Seniors cope—Especially During Covid,” by Sassafras Lowrey, in “WIRED” magazine, the author suggests that robot dogs will never replace live therapy dogs, but they can be beneficial for those struggling with loneliness and dementia.
Many studies have shown that canine companionship can relieve stress, depression, anxiety, and loneliness. They keep people active physically, and even healthier mentally. The New York Police Department are not the only ones using robotic dogs these days, electronic pets are becoming increasingly popular especially for seniors. Studies continue to show the positive effects of pet ownership, but when it come to seniors, there can be some setbacks, especially during a pandemic.
The NYPD’s dog looks nothing like a dog, in fact, it might be rather scary, but the new robot dogs from Joy for All Companion Pets look more lifelike. Plushie dogs and even cats are specifically designed for seniors and are programed to offer a sense of companionship and comfort to the elderly, especially for those living with dementia and Alzheimer’s. These companion pets cost around $130 and can be purchased online through retailers like Amazon and pharmacies like CVS. These companion pets are interactive and even have a heartbeat and respond to touch and interaction.
According to Sassafras, the robotic dogs were designed to look, sound, and feel just like real puppies, “without the responsibilities of pet ownership.” Currently, there are several Joy For All Ageless Innovation Companion Pets available, such as Orange Tabby Cat, Golden Pup, and Silver Cat with White Mitts. All are lifelike and plush, react to touch, each one makes realistic kitten and puppy sounds, and they all are somewhat responsive when people are near them. This interaction creates an experience that brings fun, joy, and friendship to older adults. Some realize they are only robotic, but that doesn’t stop them from bonding with the automotive canine.
Trained and certified therapy dogs have been used in nursing homes and in hospitals to entertain emotionally support patients and residents. In 2018, Johns Hopkins magazine reported that bringing a dog into the room helped patients become active and engaged in their recovery, and they recovered quicker. Patients could not help but engage with a dog sitting next to them, staring at them. The patient would automatically reach out to pet it on the head.
Therapy dogs provide mental stimulation that assists Alzheimer’s patients in recalling memories, as well as helping them relax during physical therapy. Some patients develop a similar kind of relationship and benefits from engaging with robotic dogs. For seniors isolated during Covid, these dogs and cats can make a huge difference for seniors, even thought they are not real.
I know that my late mother suffered from dementia. After falling and breaking her hip, she missed her blonde chiweenie, Bennie. We couldn’t find a blonde dog, but we did find a rabbit that looked similar and gave it to her. The rabbit was placed next to her, just like Bennie would lie next to her. Touching it and feeling it next to her comforted her. If a stuffed rabbit brought some calm to her, just think what an actual stuffed animal that could react to her touch would do.
While “aging gracefully,” seniors may consider a robotic dog or cat. They can still have the plushy, furry companionship without having to take the chance of falling while walking them in the cold, heat, or rain; they don’t have to worry about cleaning the litter box; and remembering to feed them will not be a problem, because they don’t eat. I believe my next pet will be a twenty-first century robotic pooch.