As of 2018, it is seniors of NYUnited States experiencing social isolation animatronic pets as part of the program New York Office on Aging (NYSOFA), a government agency charged with improving access and availability of appropriate and cost-effective non-medical support services for older adults.
Las robotic pets According to information available on the government entity’s website, they are extremely realistic and are able to make sounds and make movements similar to those of real pets.
Initially, the project had a pilot project during which 60 participants from 12 different regions received robotic pets. Since then, NYSOFA has distributed more than 31,000 animatronic companion animals to older adults “judged as socially isolated“.
According to data from the NYSOFA study, 70% of older adults who received a robotic pet reported a significant reduction in loneliness and 75% in pain reduction.
To reach these conclusions, specialists used the DeJong Loneliness Scale at different time intervals, including the period before the adoption of animatronics and 3, 6 and 12 months after their arrival in the lives of seniors.
Earlier this month, NYSOFA announced the sixth phase of the robot pet delivery project after donating 4,275 animatronic companion animals.
“We’ve launched several innovative, technology-enhanced solutions to bring people together, provide companionship, and significantly reduce isolation and its consequences,” office director Greg Olsen said in a press release.
According to Rebecca Preve, CEO and co-founder of the company Ageless innovationthe projects they conduct with NYSOFA have impacted thousands of older adults and their families and also provide interventions that make New York State a “Leader in Senior Services.”
Susan Schrader, Program Director North Country Community Health Centresaid he has seen firsthand the “power” of pets in the hands of lonely seniors.
He recalled the case of a 97-year-old woman suffering from dementia who, despite being well cared for at home, showed signs of boredom and confusion.
“When he was receiving palliative care, he was given an animatronic cat and it was transformative. She was protective and affectionate with her new companion, petting him, tending to his paws and talking to him every time he meowed. That’s the power of pets,” Schrader admitted.
In May 2023, US Surgeon General has cited loneliness and isolation as a public health crisis that costs the Medicare program $6.7 billion in additional spending each year, according to data cited by NYSOFA.
These feelings are a risk factor for diseases, high blood pressure and increase the likelihood that you will suffer from dementia and depression.
Helen Macura is one of the success stories of the robotic animal program reported in the US media. ABC News. The 101-year-old woman said that her dream since childhood was to have a pet, but the conditions of her home denied her that.
Her robot dog, which she named “Friendly”, is the one who accompanies her throughout the days. Macura advised people to adopt one.
“I’m talking to someone. I have company. Someone is listening to me here. It’s warm and comforting,” Macura said in an interview with ABC News.
The 101-year-old woman said she hopes more seniors can access the benefits of robotic pets, especially those who live alone. “They have to have company, good company,” he added.
