There can be such beauty in aging. It’s a privilege to wake up each morning, to smell the salty ocean air dancing through the Garry oak trees, and to see our little community grow and evolve. But let’s be real for a moment, life can get lonely, especially as the years carry on.
Oak Bay Volunteer Services (OBVS) is a trusted community organization that has been bringing neighbours together to combat those feelings of loneliness and isolation since 1977. OBVS was thrilled when Eldercare Foundation, a local charity that aims to enhance care, comfort and quality of life for seniors on Vancouver Island, approached them with a program idea to help bring a little extra comfort and joy to our community. Robotic companion pets for seniors!
Pets have long been known for their adorable superpowers. The Animal Health Foundation reports that pet owners have lower stress levels, alleviated depression and a reduced risk of major issues like stroke, high blood pressure and heart attacks.
But not everyone is able to have a living pet, whether because of cost, physical requirements of care, allergies or living in a pet-free space. Robotic pets, however, create an inclusive opportunity for everyone to reap the benefits of pet ownership, without the barriers that come with living pets.
A 2022 study in the Journal of Holistic Nursing found that over a six-week period, the use of robotic companion pets led to significantly lower depression and loneliness scores. This positive outcome was echoed by participants, family members and professional caregivers, who all expressed their satisfaction with the interactions.
Family members noted new opportunities to engage their loved ones in meaningful conversations, which they found very satisfying. These findings provide reassurance about the potential of robotic companion pets to improve emotional well-being.
Thanks to Eldercare Foundation, OBVS is giving out robotic companion pets to any interested resident of Oak Bay who identifies as a senior. These companion pets are made by Joy for All and respond to touch, sound and motion, which allows interaction and engagement.
The cat purrs, meows and moves, while the dog barks when spoken to, turns its head toward the sound of one’s voice, wags its tail and when petted, has a heartbeat. The pets are battery-operated and even have a mute option for those who wish to interact with the pet silently.
Do you, or someone you know, want a robotic companion pet to call your own? Reach out to Anna at OBVS today at