The fact that animals can actively improve the physical and mental health of seniors is increasingly becoming both a well researched and universally accepted fact. However, the sad news is that many seniors simply aren’t in the position to own a pet anymore. Pets, while providing unconditional love, have needs that must be met and some of these needs may be too demanding for seniors.
Instead of forgoing the vast benefits of pet ownership, seniors can now own pets without worrying about exercising or even feeding them. Because, thanks to means of artificial intelligence, robotic pets are now on the market.
Robo-pets
Robo-pets, in essence, combines design, science, and technology to create innovative and interactive health products. Entering the market as early as 2015, robotic cats and dogs have been designed to fill a void for seniors. Both robotic cats and dogs feature simple toylike designs, sounds, and movements to provide comfort, companionship, and fun for the elderly.
While robotic cats and dogs might sound advanced enough already, these pets are already being reimagined. From appearance to function, inventors are adamant about creating the next generation of robotic intelligence that provides support for older adults.
In order to interact with people, these robotic pets are fitted with sensors and voice control. An added bonus is the fact that the pet’s behavior is fully customizable through a phone app. Meaning that this robotic invention can be in effect, molded to suit the individual needs of each owner.
Thanks to means of artificial intelligence, the robotic cats and dogs can interact with a human companion in the same way as a live pet would. Providing the same engagement, delight, companionship and happiness that live pets do, just in a more unique way.
What this means for seniors
For some seniors, owning a pet just isn’t possible anymore. Some may lack the necessary means and ability to look after a pet. While others may have had to re-home their pet upon moving into a retirement community. Whatever the reason for no longer owning a pet, seniors are truly missing out.
In recent years research has revealed the true extent of the impact of pets. From improving physical health and emotional health to providing endless happiness, pets have a sort of healing quality when it comes to seniors. Making the fact that some seniors have to go without pets simply heartbreaking.
However, some of the benefits of pet ownership also double up as some of the negatives associated with pet ownership amongst seniors. The active nature of pets means that seniors have to be more mobile and thus more susceptible to falls. Additionally, the cost of looking after a pet can be a strain on seniors’ finances.
With the invention of robotic pets, all obstacles in the way of seniors owning pets are removed. As robotic pets don’t have to be fed, exercised or taken to the vet, the most immobile of seniors can enjoy the benefits of pet ownership with none of the hassle.
This fact is particularly heartening considering just how beneficial pets are to those living with dementia. Live animal therapy has been proven to soothe the behavior and psychological symptoms of living with the disease. This is because dementia sufferers benefit from the calm companionship that animals provide.
Robotic pets are paving the way for pet ownership amongst senior citizens
With pets having such a positive impact on the lives of retired seniors, it’s such a shame when some seniors simply can’t take care of, or keep their pets anymore. That’s why toy and robotics companies have come up with a way for seniors to continue their love affair with pets.
While unconventional, robotic pets like cats and dogs, are providing all the benefits of owning live pets while leaving behind all the negatives. Meaning that with robotic pets, seniors are able to enjoy all the health benefits of owning a pet without worrying about toilet training or ongoing expenses.
