The Alabama Department of Senior Services is looking to put pets in the hands of senior citizens who may be feeling isolated during the coronavirus pandemic.
But, unlike a typical pet that requires ongoing care, these four-legged friends are for nothing but comfort – no walking or feeding required.
ADSS has launched a pilot program with Ageless Innovations Joy for All robotic companion pets. The program places robotic cats and dogs with senior citizens, including some who are in long-term care facilities where visitation is limited.
The pets are being purchased for $100 each using federal grant funds.
“If we can improve our seniors’ lives by spending under $100 apiece for these companion pets, then I certainly want to give it a try,” ADSS commissioner Jean Brown said. “With our loneliness screening tool, we will be able to assess whether the pets are as successful in Alabama as they have been shown to be in other states. I am certainly hopeful about this pilot project during this time when many seniors have been choosing “safer at home” during this vile COVID-19 pandemic.”
The companion pets react to the owner’s voice and touch. Users can feel the animal’s heartbeat and it responds to the owner’s voice. Maker Ageless Innovations said the animals are made with lifelike coats and make authentic sounds.
The pilot program evaluates the success of the pets at delivery, and then every three months. New York, Florida and Pennsylvania are offering a similar program and up to 70% of the pilot participants have reported a decrease in isolation, among owners the maker said.