Robotic pets find a home among seniors suffering from dementia – Toronto Sun

A long-term care provider is using robotic dogs and cats to help dementia patients.

Amica Senior Lifestyles residences, which operates facilities in southern Ontario and in other parts of Canada, has introduced a robotic pets program to help residents with memory care.
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There is no cure for dementia, which includes difficulty communicating, agitation, depression, and confusion. It is a challenge for a person with dementia to provide care for a living pet.

Ashley Sumler, Amica’s director of quality of life, said the robots are available to residents at the company’s homes across the country.

“It is a matter of preference and needs. We work with the families to see who would benefit from a dog or cat,” Sumler said.

“It is a great way to have a social connection. Some have a need to have something to care for and they feel proud of that.”

A robotic pet can help reduce depression, and improve socialization, and communication abilities.

Robotic cats and dogs, which respond to being petted or hugged, can provide companionship, reduce stress and promote relaxation without requiring any actual care.

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