5 Best Robotic Pets for Dementia Patients

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Robotic pets are a great way to take care of senior patients suffering from Alzheimer’s disease or any other form of Dementia. These robot companions can keep them engaged and entertained for hours. 

They will not only benefit your loved ones who require prolonged care but they will also help you (the caregiver), who has to deal with the day-to-day routine of getting the medication, handling patients, providing personal companionship, and much more.

It is natural for humans to want companionship, and that includes pets. For instance, most people who love dogs will tell you that having a dog around can brighten up the dullest of days. Here you will find the best robotic pets for Dementia patients.

Here Are The Best Robotic Pets For Dementia Patients

1. Lifelike Animatronic Bird

The Lifelike Animatronic Bird from Joy For All is a great friend for someone dealing with dementia. What makes it special is how easy it is to attach to a bedside railing.

This makes it convenient for the bird to chirp happily, bringing joy not only to the person with dementia but also creating a warm atmosphere for visitors. The bird, by being interactive, becomes a social spark, spreading happiness to both the patient and those around.

The touch-and-feel aspect of this robotic pet is another cool thing. You can pet the bird, and this sensory experience can be calming. This physical interaction adds a real-life feel to the companionship, making the animatronic bird therapeutic. And it’s easy for anyone to enjoy, adding a simple yet powerful way to connect.

Talking and connecting with others is super important, and the Joy For All Animatronic Bird gets this. It can respond when you talk to it, making conversations possible. This talking feature makes the connection feel real and adapts to what you say. This not only promotes communication but also gives a special kind of companionship that’s extra meaningful for those with dementia.

2. Tipmant Cute Electronic Bird

Cute Sparrow bird by Tipmant not only adds to the decor of your home but also keeps the Dementia patient entertained and happy all day long. You can place this robot pet on a desk or any other furniture with a flat surface. 

The amazing thing about this Sparrow Bird is it does not chirp unless you command it to. It begins to chip the moment it hears a sound like a “Hello” or “Hi, there birdie”. It is a responsive bird. You can switch on and off the responsive feature with the button.

Furthermore, while the Sparrow is chirping it performs the usual motion of a bird. Its head will move sideways, the mouth will open and close and the wings will flap. 

Note that this device required three AA batteries to function. It is not rechargeable. You have to replace the batteries when they run out of energy. 

This is one of the best robotic pets for Dementia patients who love and adore birds. It may not be possible for your loved one to go out in a park and watch real birds. This robotic pet does the job well.

3. Joy For All Freckled Pup

Dementia patients are often advised to keep away from a real pet. Staying in close contact with a puppy or a cat can be dangerous for both the animal and the patient. There are several valid reasons behind it. This is where a robotic puppy comes into the picture. 

The robotic companion puppy from Joy For All is equipped with barkback technology that makes it possible for the device to make puppy-like noises and respond to human touch. 

Folks in the later stages of the condition may not realize that it is a lifeless robot. It is important that you introduce this robotic pet to them in a kind and respectful way. One way is to give them this robot and let them figure it out for themselves. See how they react. Or you can explain to them how it works, why they need it, the right way to use it, etc.

You must know that this robotic puppy has built-in sensors capable of detecting human touch and voice. The artificially generated heartbeat gives the dog a life-like feel. Your loved one can touch, pet, or hug the robotic pet, and the pet will respond to these gestures. 

4. Joy For All Silver Cat with White Mitts

Silver cat from Joy For All is one of the best robotic pets for Dementia patients with a strong affection for house cats. It is equipped with groundbreaking vibrapurr technology that gives that cat a purr that is indistinguishable from the purr of a real cat. This device produces an authentic purr. 

An elderly person with Dementia can sit comfortably on a couch holding this Silver cat. It purrs, makes other cat noises, responds to human touch with a nod, blinks its eyes, and opens its mouth— just like a real home cat. Further, it is safe for kids in the house to touch or play with this robotic cat. 

This product is perfectly suited for a Dementia-affected person living in a nursing home. Nursing home residents often stay away from their families, and it is common for them to get lonely. This robotic cat will safely relieve a bit of loneliness and isolation, and bring happiness and joy to the life of a nursing home resident. 

It is highly unlikely that a Dementia patient will find this robotic pet real. They will know it’s an artificial companion unless they are in the latter stages of the disease experiencing severe cognitive dysfunction. Still, they can pet or hug this robotic cat whenever they feel anxious or uneasy. 

5. Electronic Hamster by Homily 

Hamsters are small, cute, and cuddly— there are lots of reasons to like them. Unlike other larger pets, Hamsters take up considerably small space in your home. Having said that, it may not be a good idea to have a real Hamster in your home if you have a family member with Dementia.  

Caregivers can go for artificial talking Hamsters that repeat every word they hear. The electronic hamster by Homily is one of the best pets for Dementia patients who have a liking for small pet rodents. 

Talking Hamster from Homily has an amusing voice that will instantly lighten the mood of your loved one. It will also keep others in the vicinity in good spirits. 

This is a perfect companion for a nursing home resident who wishes to make friends with ease. The cute voices made by this device will draw other residents to your loved one, which will be good for their mental and emotional health.

Also, this is the cutest gift you can give to your loved one. They will be delighted the moment they see the package. It’s such a unique gift that says you care for the wellbeing and happiness of the person you’re giving it to. It’s not too expensive and anyone can afford it. 

The talking Hamster by Homily US will respond to everything you say. It begins repeating what is said two seconds after you finish your sentence. Furthermore, it also shakes its body and shows total enthusiasm just like a real Hamster would. It responds to petting. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it safe for a Dementia patient to be around a robotic pet?

It is totally safe for someone living with Dementia to be around a robotic pet. These pets are covered in soft fur which keeps the user comfortable. They do not have sharp or pointed edges that can hurt the elderly. Caregivers need not worry. In fact, NBCnews believes robotic pets to be the next big thing in Dementia care.

Are robotic pets safe for kids in the home?

Robotic pets are safe for kids older than three. They are battery-operated, hence contain AA or AAA batteries that can be a choking hazard for toddlers. The batteries are installed safely inside a battery box, which is difficult to locate but some toddlers may open it and get access to the cylindrical batteries. If you have a toddler at home, it is recommended that you seal off the battery box with duct tape.

Are robotic pets battery operated?

Yes. All robotic pets discussed in this post are battery-operated. They either operate on AA or AAA batteries. You need to replace the batteries after every 8-12 months. It really depends on the usage. You can get AA or AAA batteries in the nearest convenience store. They are quite affordable.

How to choose a robotic pet for a loved one with Dementia?

Pick an animal that your loved one likes. Cats and Dogs are the most popular pets. Everyone likes them. But if you are looking for something different, you can go for a robotic Hamster, Panda, or Bird. Also, make sure your loved one is not allergic to fur or fleece.

What if the person with Dementia refuses to interact with a robotic pet? Do I buy a real pet then?

It is normal for a person living with Dementia to show no interest in the robotic pet you just bought for them. Some folks might need some warming up time before they accept a robotic pet. In my opinion, you should get a real pet only after consulting with a geriatrician.

Do they know it’s an artificial animal? Do I tell them about it?

Most people living with Dementia will know that the robotic pet sitting in front of them is artificial and not real. But some may take some time before they figure it out. It depends on the level of cognitive decline they have suffered. Nonetheless, it is important for a caregiver to respect their wishes. Do not keep the robotic pet near them if they clearly do not like it.

Are robotic pets waterproof? Can I put them in a washer?

Robotic pets mentioned in this post are not waterproof. They are splash proof though. They can handle a bit of water, tea, or some other fluid spattered on them. And no, you cannot clean them in a washer or dry them in a dryer. I suggest cleaning them with a dry cloth once or twice every week.

Is it disrespectful to give a grown adult a robotic pet? A toy?

Generally speaking, it is not disrespectful to give a person living with Dementia a robotic pet as a gift. Once you give them the robotic pet, let them decide if they wish to keep it. I know it is a toy meant for kids but some folks might not mind interacting with it occasionally. Keep in mind that this is highly subjective and it is best to do what feels right.

Summary 

Robotic pets are great companions for the elderly. They are programmed by experts to provide both mental stimulation and physical comfort. When it comes to treating Dementia, one has to take his or her time to be able to accurately ensure that the patient will have a pleasant time when dealing with the disease. This is where the best robotic pets for Dementia patients come into the picture. A robotic pet keeps the patient calm, comfortable, and entertained for a long time. It allows them to enjoy their time. 

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