Modern demographics show that nowadays, life expectancy is high and the childbirth rate is low. One of the more prominent effects of this situation is, sadly, loneliness among senior citizens. While nothing can truly replace human connection, new robotic pets might be able to relieve some of the loneliness the elderly experience on a daily basis. The only difference is that they don’t require the constant care that regular pets usually need.
It’s good for you
Having pets is very good for one’s health. In fact, even just the act of petting an animal can improve your mood and help you relax. According to UCLA Health, this mood shift is caused by serotonin and prolactin — hormones our brain releases when we pet an animal. But having a dog or a cat comes down to more than just having something furry to pet, and they require attention and care just like every other living thing. Senior citizens are sometimes unable to provide that kind of care for physical or mental reasons, but a robotic pet would need a lot less.
Tailor-made
The robotic pets we’re talking about were specifically made for the elderly by Ageless Innovation and called Joy For All Companion Pets. What gives those animals an authentic feel is how responsive they are. They sense light, sound, and of course, touch. Since having a pet is so beneficial for one’s mental health and the hope behind this new invention will be responsive enough to have a similar effect.
Numerous benefits
Other than keeping the elderly some company, the robotic pets might help senior citizens in other ways. A New York residential home has opted for a robotic pet rather than certain medication for their demented seniors. Someone suffering from dementia can often feel confused and disoriented, and having the pet would help comfort them through those difficult episodes. Apparently, robotic pets help the resident feel more in control as caregivers, thus improving their self-esteem.
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