Robotic pets are helping residents with dementia at this Shefford care home

A novel method of supporting older adults, especially those living with dementia, has been adopted by Oak Manor care home in Shefford.

The care home has introduced robotic pets to support people who are lonely and those with Alzheimer’s disease who may be be suffering memory loss.

A spokesman for the home said studies have shown that robotic animals can alleviate loneliness, especially among older people. The research has also found pets have multiple benefits for those living with dementia, such as connection to memories, improved mood and increased interaction with others and surroundings.

Home manager, Fay Gooch, said: “We’ve been using the Joy for All CompanionPets at Oak Manor for several years. They have been a great addition to the care home and it is evident that the residents have developed a bond with the pets, which is really heart-warming to see.

“Both staff and visitors see that they bring comfort and relaxation to residents, who enjoy stroking the cats and dogs on their laps for some well-deserved cuddles.

"Plus, the soft sounds made by the pets and their life-like fur is clearly soothing and calming. We have genuinely seen a number of residents become more interactive and social when the pets are around, not only with the pets themselves but also with each other as they are a great talking

point.

"They even provide a great deal of entertainment and light relief as many of our residents are prone to dance with the pets while the radio plays."

The robotic pets have been provided by Ageless Innovations’ Joy For All whose Companion Pets are designed to bring comfort, companionship, and fun to elder loved ones.

A spokesman for Ageing & Mental Health, which has carried out one of the studies into the health benefits of robotic pets, said: “Studies consistently demonstrate that older adults who are lonely have higher rates of depression and increased mortality risk. Pet ownership may be a solution for loneliness; however, challenges related to pet ownership exist for older adults.

"Therefore, researchers and practitioners are examining the use of animatronic pets to reduce loneliness.”