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Electronic Cat For Dementia Patients

The Promise Of A Furry Robotic Companion

Robotic pets comfort dementia patients

A recent study from Issues In Mental Health Nursing looked at the impact of providing mild to moderate dementia patients with interactive robotic pet cats. Researchers gave 12 adult day care patients their own cat, which each patient named. Interactions with the cats occurred in groups four times a week for a total of 12 sessions.

All participants moods improved, and over half of people had a slight to moderate upswing in attention, language, and registration. The robotic pet brings comfort, companionship and lowers stress while helping the individual relax and feel calm. While preventing loneliness, it can also reduce depression and improve socialization and communication abilities, says Dr. Holly Schiff, PsyD, a licensed clinical psychologist at Jewish Family Services of Greenwich.

Stage : Identification Of Relevant Studies

Published articles and grey literature were identified and searched in the following electronic databases: CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, MEDLINE via Ovid, and PsycINFO via Ovid. All relevant literature that were written in English, regardless of methodological quality, were included. Since the JfA robotic pets were only developed in 2016, only studies published after 2016 were included. The search strategies were developed in consultation with a research librarian based on the Population, Concept, and Context framework that is recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute for scoping reviews . The full search strategy can be found in Multimedia Appendix 1. To cover the breadth of available literature and to ensure that the search was comprehensive, searches were also conducted on Google Scholar and through forward and backward citation tracing. The search was initially conducted in May 2020. To maximize the currency of this review , an update of the search was conducted in September 2020.

Robotic Pets Have Unique Benefits

While the idea of replacing a living pet with a robotic one may feel a bit sterile, there are wide-ranging advantages.

For starters, real pets may not be welcome at nursing homes or other care centers. It can also be difficult for people with dementia to care for pets. They may forget things like food, water, and cleaning a litter box, or they dont have the mobility. They might not be able to get a sick or injured animal to a vet, says Dr. Aimee Daramus, clinical psychologist and author of Understanding Bipolar Disorder, adding that people also wont have to deal with the mental fallout of a pet dying.

Schiff adds that another benefit of robotic pets comes from increased ease with technologywhich is more commonly used in other areas of health than ever before.

Researchers havent identified any adverse effects of robotic pet companions for people with dementia. However, Schiff cautions that things may get challenging if a person believes the animal is real and becomes stressed about caring for it.

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Engage Your Cat In Mental And Physical Stimulation

To maintain top brain function, you must use it or lose it. Enrichment is an important part of geriatric cat health. Make sure to play with your cat every day, and engage your cat with brain teaser games.

Food puzzles are a wonderful way to get cats to use their brains, you can buy them readymade or you can make them yourself. If your cat will tolerate a leash, take your cat on short walks so that your cat can have safe, outdoor visual and physical stimulation.

These activities will help keep your cats brain young.

Maintain Regular Veterinary Checkups:

Robotic Dog Dementia

Older cats need regular care to continue to age well. Veterinary medicine is advancing rapidly in the field of geriatric medicine, and you may be surprised at how well your vet can help your pet.

There is no doubt: cats with dementia represent special needs cats. We know, however, that there is great reward in caring for the least of these, even if it is just a cat.

While your furry angel may require you to make a couple of accommodations, there is no doubt the reward of helping a cat live well into advanced age is great. Dont forget to enlist the aid of a veterinary ally you trust: this person will have the knowledge you need to make the best decisions for your cat.

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Weve Seen A Joy For All Cat Bring Cheer To A Memory Care Community

The DailyCaring team had a chance to observe one of the Joy for All robotic cats in action at a local memory care community. The residents loved her!

Some older adults think these are real animals and feel a sense of purpose when they pet and care for them. Others may simply enjoy them as a fun, cuddly interactive toy.

No matter what, its clear that these toy companion pets add comfort and fun to seniors lives.

Talking Soft Plush Pandas By Plush Creations

panda

Americans are in love with Pandas. These cute and cuddly animals are native to South China and are commonly seen in zoos all over the globe. Plush Creations brings you a set of four talking robotic pandas. This toy is designed for a child but it can be a decent source of entertainment for someone living with Dementia.

What are these Panda plush toys capable of? Each of the Panda can introduce itself, and tell you about their fun Panda-related activities. These Pandas are adorable and they can do a lot more for a Dementia patient.

Dementia-affected people often lose their ability to use their hands in order to perform day-to-day tasks such as writing, eating with a fork, sewing, typing, etc. Fiddling around with these plush Panda can help improve motor skills in a Dementia patient.

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Not A Replacement For A Live Animal

I would like to be clear that a robotic pet is not a replacement for a live animal.

Robotic animals cannot adapt their response to you in the way a real animal can. At least, not yet! However, a robotic animal can provide a level of stimulation, engagement and comfort that one cannot find with a simple stuffed animal. I hope to illustrate the uses and benefits of robotic animals by sharing some of the real reactions I have observed in my work with our residents.

The majority of reactions to the robotic pets are positive. Initial responses usually include:

  • verbally addressing the robot stuffed animal,
  • wonder at the life like qualities of the animal, and
  • engaging in conversation about the robotic pet with those around them.

However, not all reactions are positive. The most common secondary reaction is indifference. There have been some negative reactions but I have found those results are seldom.

Ways To Use The Robotic Pets

Great gift for people with Alzheimer’s: Joy for All Companion Pets

There are many different ways in which you can utilize a robotic animal in a community setting.

The most obvious use is for one to one interactions with individuals. I use the robotic animals in a number of different ways including redirecting an agitated individual, engaging an individual in conversation, or comforting a distressed individual.

I have also found the animatronic animals useful in group activities. I have designed group activities centered specifically around the animals such as naming discussions for a new addition, and an art group making collars out of beads and ribbon for each robotic animal.

I also use the animatronic animals to supplement certain activities such as reminiscent groups about pet ownership. Most recently, I have used the robotic dog during virtual visits with animal assisted therapy volunteers. Since the pandemic started, SPCA volunteers have been unable to visit in person. We started using Zoom to virtually visit with various volunteers. Having the robotic dog in the room during the virtual visit provides a tangible representation of what is being viewed on screen.

I find the individuals that I work with are more engaged during the virtual visit when the robotic dog is with them in the room.

As with any therapeutic intervention in memory care, the response to robotic animals is not always consistent. An individual can be calmed or engaged by the animal one day and exhibit a completely different response the next day.

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Animal Therapy Meets Robot Stuffed Animals

We have all heard the saying: “A mans best friend is his dog.”

I know from both personal experience and scientific studies the benefits of animal therapy.

I am the daughter of a veterinarian and grew up with many animals throughout my life. It is hard to imagine my life without animals. Yet, I know there may come a time in my life when I am unable to care for an animal in a safe and healthy way as is the case for many of the individuals I work with.

Animals provide an unconditional love and the loss or absence of it can be devastating.

Now imagine, you not only have lost this animal that means so much to you but your brain is unable to retain the reason why the animal is no longer with you. All you remember is the loss.

This is the experience for many individuals with dementia.

What Are People Saying

It is adorable. I bought it for my father who wanted a little dog for a companion but lives in an apartment complex that does not allow pets. He is so taken with “Gus”. He fell in love with him as soon as we took it out of the box!

Jen C.

We purchased the golden retriever for our elderly mother. She just loves it. Named him Buddy and he’s by her side all the time. We couldn’t be happier for her. She lives alone and this is the most perfect gift.

Donna K.

The best purchase I have ever made for my personal care home senior client. It looks and sounds so real. They just love Rosie. Thats what they named her.

Pauline E.

Kitty brings such joy and comfort to my 101 yr old mother. She is soft and cuddly. Her meowing is soothing to hear. Mom just loves to sit and pet her.

Rosalind A.

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Top 10 Robotic Pets For Dementia

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Our Overall Rating:

Sensory stimulation for adults with dementia can help reduce agitation in their daily life. Examples of these activities are taking the senior for a walk, giving them a hand massage, or bringing a new or unfamiliar object during your next visit.

The WILD BABY Elephant can certainly count as unfamiliar. Instead of bringing a robotic dog, the sight of an elephant will help spark the residents interest and provide them with entertainment and relief from anxious feelings. The microwaveable plush gives tactile, auditory, and sensory stimulation through its therapy pouch and lavender scent beads.

The therapy pack is removable and can be heated or cooled. Its also used to relieve cramps, bruises, and fevers.

Pros and Cons of the WILD BABY Elephant Microwaveable Stuffed Animal

Brings Company And Comfort To Your Loved One

Robotic Pets 2020

People with dementia are more at risk of feeling lonely or isolated. Break your loved ones isolation with the Joy For All companion cat without the trouble of a real pet . The Joy For All interactive plush also allows you to take a break when your loved one feels comfortable enough to interact alone with their pet.

How does the Joy For All Companion Cat help you?

The Joy For All cat aims to your loved ones quality of life:

  • Through several scientific tests, the Joy For All is proven to have many benefits including an having an extremely calming effect on an individual
  • An interaction since it reacts to touch
  • To break your loved ones isolation

You can choose from 3 available colors of cat including tuxedo, silver with white mitts, and orange tabby. It aims to stimulate both your loved ones mind and senses.

Useful for

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Stuffed Animals Arent Demeaning

Some people might feel that its demeaning to give an older adult a stuffed animal. But if something is a safe source of enjoyment, does it really matter what other people think?

The most important thing is to find out if the person is interested or not. Perhaps offer them a less expensive stuffed cat or dog to see how they respond.

When there are few ways to improve someones quality of life, lets not be so quick to discard a good option because it doesnt seem age appropriate.

And lets not forget that there are many healthy adults of all ages who still enjoy stuffed animals.

Next Step See customer reviews and browse the Joy for All Pet Companions

Joy For All Silver Cat With White Mitts

Silver cat from Joy For All is one of the best robotic pets for Dementia patients with a strong affection for house cats. It is equipped with groundbreaking vibrapurr technology that gives that cat a purr that is indistinguishable from the purr of a real cat. This device produces an authentic purr.

An elderly person with Dementia can sit comfortably on a couch holding this Silver cat. It purrs, makes other cat noises, responds to human touch with a nod, blinks its eyes, and opens its mouth just like a real home cat. Further, it is safe for kids in the house to touch or play with this robotic cat.

This product is perfectly suited for a Dementia-affected person living in a nursing home. Nursing home residents often stay away from their families, and it is common for them to get lonely. This robotic cat will safely relieve a bit of loneliness and isolation, and bring happiness and joy to the life of a nursing home resident.

It is highly unlikely that a Dementia patient will find this robotic pet real. They will know its an artificial companion unless they are in the latter stages of the disease experiencing severe cognitive dysfunction. Still, they can pet or hug this robotic cat whenever they feel anxious or uneasy.

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What Are The Symptoms Of Dementia In Cats

Signs that your cat has dementia include confusion, house soiling, reduced grooming, and other changes in behavior.

Dementia is associated with older cats. Mental impairment is usually noticed in cats older than 10, and feline dementia is usually seen in cats advanced in age 15 years and older.

The most common signs associated with feline dementia are changes in behavior and mental abilities. Signs of dementia may include:

  • Appearing confused and trapped in corners
  • House soiling: inappropriate urination or defecation outside the litter tray
  • Being asleep and awake at different times
  • Increased vocalization in the form of meowing or yowling vocalizing
  • Increased matting and grooming less
  • Pacing or wandering aimlessly, getting lost
  • Weight loss and/or loss of appetite

Good For More Than Just A Cuddle

Companion Pet for Seniors and Others! – Hasbro Joy For All Cat

Jason Burton, head of dementia practice and innovation with Alzheimer’s WA, said the use of robotic props could help trigger happy memories in patients.

“What we’re tapping into is emotional memory,” he said.

“For people who have dementia, their emotional memory is really deep-seated in long-term memory.

“If we can find interactions that tap into that emotional memory of good times and times you were feeling happy, contented or caring for something, then it can bring back those long-term memories and that leads to a sense of wellbeing.”

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Supporting Someone With Dementia

Dementia is a term used to describe a series of diseases that affects the brain. There are many types of dementia such as Alzheimers disease and symptoms vary from person to person.

Being diagnosed with dementia can be a daunting experience. It brings a lot of changes and challenges to a persons everyday life.

If youre a carer or a family/friend of a person who has been diagnosed with dementia you can help ease their daily experiences by supporting them in their everyday life and activities.

There are many factors to consider asides from the symptoms, such as the persons current living environment, the support network and relationships around them. These factors of life are central to mental wellbeing regardless of age, ability or diagnosis.

It is helpful to understand the impact the disease is having on the persons life. Everyone is different and the disease can affect peoples lives differently regardless of the symptoms, including how it affects a persons social activities and daily enjoyment.

You can help by:

  • Remembering they are still a person with emotions and thoughts. They are still your patient, relative or friend.
  • Include them in activities and conversations.
  • Respect their wishes and independence where appropriate.
  • Focus on what a person can do rather than what they cant.
  • Be a good listener. Loneliness and isolation are a known issue with dementia patients, so be willing to listen.

How Common Is Dementia In Cats

This is a hard question to answer because the diagnosis of feline dementia is relatively new in veterinary medicine. The condition is likely more common than we realize because it is not often reported nor recognized by cat owners.

In addition, several other health conditions, including advanced kidney disease and hyperthyroidism, can mimic the signs of feline cognitive dysfunction, making it difficult to recognize the disease.

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‘tabby Cat’: The Lifelike Dementia Companion Cat

For people with dementia, feeling anxious and agitated is a common occurrence. When a person develops dementia, they can often struggle to communicate with others, and as the disease progresses they can begin to feel increasingly isolated, lonely, and frustrated. Not being able to communicate as easily can mean that for many people living with dementia, life can become extremely lonely.

There are various methods of making life more enjoyable for people living with dementia, many of which help to manage feelings of stress, anxiety, and agitation. One of the most effective methods of doing so is through the use of a soft toy, which studies have shown has the potential to calm and soothe a person with dementia who is feeling stressed, worried or frustrated.

Aside from helping to reduce feelings of anxiety and stress, soft toys have also been proven to help people living with dementia to feel more connected and give them something that they can communicate with, to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.

Why is the robotic Tabby Cat a good option?

Further studies have shown that spending time with animals – or robotic animals that create the same emotional response as a live pet – offers various health and wellness benefits for people of all ages, including people living with dementia. These health benefits include lowered blood pressure, reduced heart rate, boosted levels of feel-good hormone, serotonin, and decreased levels of stress-causing hormone, cortisol.

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