In New York, many seniors are finding solace and companionship through lifelike animatronic pets. Over 31,000 of these robotic animals have been distributed to older adults across the state, thanks to a collaboration between the New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) and Ageless Innovation, the creators of Joy for All robotic pets. Recently, they launched the sixth phase of this initiative, delivering 4,725 new companion pets and games. Since the program's inception in 2018, similar efforts have been replicated in more than 20 states.
Designed to mimic real cats and dogs, these animatronic pets aim to provide comfort and alleviate loneliness among seniors. According to NYSOFA, data indicates significant positive outcomes: 75% of recipients reported reduced loneliness, and an equal percentage experienced a decrease in pain. Susan Schrader, director of the Community Health Center of the North Country, shared a touching example: “One 97-year-old woman with severe dementia received an animatronic cat while in hospice care. Despite her condition, the cat brought her immense comfort and drastically improved her quality of life.”
Additionally, NYSOFA and Ageless Innovation are expanding their efforts to include Joy for All games. In partnership with Hasbro, they have redesigned classic board games like Scrabble, Trivial Pursuit, and the Game of Life to be more accessible to seniors, featuring larger fonts and intergenerational content.
The U.S. Surgeon General declared loneliness and isolation a public health crisis in 2023, linking it to various health issues and significant Medicare costs. Ted Fischer, CEO and co-founder of Ageless Innovation, remarked, “Our collaboration with NYSOFA and the Association on Aging in New York has received heartwarming feedback from families and caregivers. The noticeable improvements in seniors’ well-being inspire us every day.”
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