Cindy
In the tragic world of Alzheimer’s Disease, “comfort” is most often used to describe “being free from pain or constraint.”
Now, according to the recent report from “Aging and Health Technology Watch,” when “Robotic Companion Pets” (aka Robo-Pets) are introduced to sufferers, “comfort” is used in a far more emotionally powerful context: “to ease the feelings of grief or distress.”
The same Aging and Health’s report noted there are 3 top ways Robo-Pets lend comfort to Alzheimer’s sufferers, the family and their carers:
Photo courtesy of Joy For All
#1.Reduced anxiety and agitation (AND decreased medication)!
In one study in a long-term care facility, the researchers found a measurable reduction in agitation scores of residents who had a Robo-Pet. In a similar study, the carer was able to decrease the amount of anxiety medication by redirecting the patient to the robo-pup for calming throughout the day.
One of the most common responses from a resident about their robo-pet: “She is a lot of company, we love each other.”
#2. Improved mood, and senses of well-being
Sadly, it is no surprise symptoms of depression go hand-in-hand with Alzheimer’s. Folks have feelings of social isolation, have trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, increased agitation and irritability.
Photo courtesy of Joy For All
When Joy for All Companion Pets are introduced into resident’s lives, research validates these charming robo-pups and kitties helped their “owners” be more calm and in better moods. One staffer commented: “I think the reason we have had such a decrease in behaviors and problems with one of our residents is because of the cat. She used to be very agitated when she was in a skilled nursing facility, and I think that this cat has helped her transition to long-term care.”
Photo courtesy of Joy For All
#3. Improved communication
When a loved one loses their ability to understand speech and communication (aka. diminished cognition) it most often results in fear and anxiety.
Seeking an alternative to “more medicine,” a study by Florida Atlantic University set out to evaluate the use of the pets in improving sufferer’s speech and communication (“cognition”). Nearly 7 out of 10 “robo-pet owners” studied showed signs of better behavior, increased levels of understanding, positive moods, and increased MMSE (test for quantifying cognitive abilities) scores (an interesting read, by the way).
POWERFUL RESULTS INDEED!
Would you like to learn more about who creates “robo pets?” Check out my post on “The 3 Top Trending AI companion pets!”
With kindest thoughts of comfort,
Cindy
