Exploring Use of Companion Robot Pets for Older Adults in Care Homes

In the researchers' words

This study will assess the use and impact of the affordable 'Joy for All' robot pets for older people with and without dementia living in the care homes in South West England. Robot pets such as Paro have shown potential in improving wellbeing (including reduced agitation, loneliness, medication use, anxiety and depression), however previous work conducted by the investigators suggests Paro is less acceptable to older adults than alternative devices; the Joy for All cat and dog. Paro is also much more expensive (£5000 compared to £100) limiting its use within the real world, and limiting the number of people able to benefit. The investigators therefore wish to explore the potential of these more affordable robots in achieving wellbeing benefits.