Interactive robot cat builds a bridge to dementia patients

Those who work in care or take care of their relatives living with dementia know all too well: dementia patients live in a world of their own. It can be a real challenge to get through to them. Lucky achieves this through play. Just like her friends Goldy and Blacky, she is a robotic cat. Robotic pets have successfully been used in the care sector for a number of years. They help to build bridges where words fail and touch seniors on an emotional level. Robotic cats can provide a meaningful and relieving addition to the care of dementia patients by nursing staff or relatives. Caring for the cuddly cat can increase the owner’s sense of well-being and bring joy to seniors and those around them. Relatives and nursing staff can enjoy watching the senior flourish.

Lifelike and practically real: all made possible with highly advanced technology

The robotic cat very closely resembles its four-legged real-life counterpart with its perfectly soft coat. However, Lucky, Goldy and Blacky can do a lot more than simply look cute. The robotic cat’s fluffy coat conceals revolutionary sensor, motion and vibration technology. It reacts to movements and cuddles. It can also open and shut its eyes and mouth. True to cat behaviour, it can lift its paw and then appear to be cleaning itself. When pet, it soothingly purrs and lets out a meow from time to time.

Fun, relaxation and a sense of security with the robotic cat

Installed sensors allow the owners to interact and play with their robotic pets. The cat reacts differently depending on where and how its owner touches or pets it. When its left cheek is touched, the new pet moves its head towards the hand. Mimicking its real-life counterpart, the cat starts to relax the longer it is stroked. Just like its owner. If the robotic cat is not touched for a few minutes, it will take a nap. All it takes is a gentle tap on its back to continue playing. It is not just people living with dementia who can benefit from the calming effect of the low-maintenance companion: all seniors who are unable to have a real cat due to physical or spatial restrictions can benefit.

Inspires initiative and positivity among dementia patients

Elderly people, particularly those living with dementia, increasingly rely on assistance. They often feel wary and go into seclusion. Contact with pets, particularly dogs or cats, can often feel less complicated or intimidating. Interacting with robotic cats can help seniors to feel positive and inspire initiative. Dementia patients can directly experience the cat reacting to their touch. They remind some owners of kittens from their childhood, while others discover the joy of an animal companion for the first time. And everybody is happy that the robotic cat never scratches or bites.

Feeling good without the respsonsibility

Studies have proven that animals have a positive effect on the mental, physical and social well-being of people living with dementia. Caring for the interactive cat has a calming and relaxing effect. It helps to reduce feelings of loneliness whilst simultaneously boosting quality of life. The robotic cat inspires positivity and is suitable for everyone, particularly those who are unable to own a real cat due to allergies. In addition, the interactive companion brings happiness and requires zero responsibility, something that can often be a burden at an advanced age. The robotic cat requires neither food nor visits to the vet. It is house-trained and always ready to snuggle, cuddle and be brushed.

Award-winning robotic cats

Considerable expertise and experience were required to create Lucky, Goldy and Blacky. The robotic cats provide a rich experience for both their owners and their relatives and nursing staff. They have been awarded by the Dementia Society of America, an American association of volunteers aimed at raising awareness for dementia. The innovative cuddly toy has also received the Caregiver Friendly Award for products with special benefits for caregivers in America twice in a row.