Bradwell: Down Hall Care Home introduce robotic therapy pets

Down Hall care home in Bradwell has brought in a life-size robotic therapy dog and cat which were donated during the third lockdown by Essex dementia services.

The cat purrs and meows, the dog barks, and both pets move in response to touch and the residents’ voices.

Resident Joyce Ashton, age 89, has formed a special bond with the robotic cat.

Home manager Karen Johnson said: “Joyce is living with dementia and loves to sit with the cat on her knee, she strokes and brushes it and chats away to it, just as you would a real-life animal.

“She finds it reassuring and has become quite protective of her pet.

“It’s heartwarming to see how much joy it brings her when the cat responds to her touch and voice.

“Joyce had her own pet cat, so it brings back fond memories and triggers positive associations.

“There’s real love in her eyes when she looks at her pet, it’s lovely to watch and brings tears to your eyes.”

During the latest lockdown, when residents were not able to receive visits from family and friends, the care home found the pets were beneficial to residents’ wellbeing.

“The response from the residents has been remarkable,” added Karen.

“Those residents who routinely engage with them have become less agitated and their mood has improved.

Ellen Ellinston, age 82, with the robotic therapy dog

Another fan of pets was Ellen Ellinston, a resident who sadly died aged 82.

“As soon as we got the pets, we saw instant changes in both Ellen and Joyce,” added Karen.

“Both ladies have close and supportive family networks, so it was hard for them when they were not able to have visitors.

Pals - Joyce Ashton with one of the robotic animals which has brought joy to care home residents

“Ellen formed a special bond with the robotic dog and loved to cuddle and kiss it.

“Her family could not believe the difference it made to their mum and how much happiness it brought her in her final months.”