Robotic pets ‘filling a void’ in Carinity aged care communities

Older Australians residing at Carinity aged care communities have welcomed new furry companions in the form of battery-operated pets.

As the popularity of these pet grows, more residents across Carinity's 12 facilities are experiencing the benefits, including improved mood, better sleep, and reduced feelings of loneliness.

Mark Lister, the Residential Manager at Carinity Brookfield Green, said their dozen robo-pets stayed with the residents around the clock. 

 "They're amazing and truly fill a void for the residents," he shared with Aged Care Insite.

"Many residents miss out on physical affection, like cuddling.

"While our staff do their best, the pets bridge the gap between what our members can provide and what a family member or a real pet would have offered at home."

Cuddling with one of the eight cats or four dogs allows residents to feel the vibration of a cat purring and the 'heartbeat' of a dog.

Cats, in particular, offer a more interactive experience, Mark said, by simulating real feline behaviour as they roll and stretch while being stroked. 

Dogs, on the other hand, bark, wag their tails and raise their paws as if in anticipation of shaking hands.

Residents have formed strong bonds with them – some even have special beds for the pets to spend the night together.

Mark said he often saw residents with pets on their laps.

"The little dogs will bark if you talk or sneak up on them," he said.

Introducing these robotic pets at Carinity Brookfield Green began three years ago when a family member donated one as a token of gratitude following her father's passing.

"After that, we just kept getting more," Mark said.

"Their companionship and touch are so important for the wellbeing of our residents."

The Brisbane-based facility delivers round-the-clock personalised care to residents in 96 modern rooms with private suites.

Overall, Carinity has 12 permanent residential aged care, respite care and dementia-specific care communities across Queensland.

Residents living in Rockhampton's Carinity Shalom aged care community also enjoy the camaraderie of therapeutic toys with realistic fur.

Larissa Gear, the Carinity Aged Care Regional Residential Manager, said the companion pets brought 'immense joy' to the residents and would recommend it to other providers.

"Some residents living with dementia who are unresponsive to other therapies may brighten up, pat and talk to the companion pet," Larissa said.

"Other users reminisce about the animals they owned in their younger years, prompting them to share their pet stories and happy memories."

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