Robotic Pets for Seniors

Seniors can benefit from pets in many ways. Pets can give them a sense of purpose, offer companionship, and lift their mood. According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, 64% of pet owners also say their pet helps keep them active. Older adults experiencing loneliness or memory loss may like having a pet for comfort and routine. 

While some assisted living is pet-friendly, live pet ownership may not be practical for older adults with dementia or seniors living somewhere that doesn't allow pets, like nursing homes. In these cases, robotic pets may be an ideal alternative. These furry companions can give seniors the comfort of a pet but without the need for typical pet care. Use this guide to learn more about robot pets for you or your loved one.

Robotic pets are lifelike toy animals that mimic some physical characteristics and actions of real pets. Robotic pets aren't designed to replace real pets, but they can give seniors similar emotional benefits by reducing anxiety and increasing happiness. 

Some robotic pets walk, bark, blink, and purr. Others stay curled up in a sleeping position while their chest moves, just like a real pet sleeps. Robotic pets have soft fur and are easy to hold and shower with affection. Yet they don't need to be fed, walked, or groomed, making them much easier to care for.

Nursing homes and memory care facilities often prohibit residents from having pets. Given that  Caring's 2024 dementia care survey found 16% of respondents receive care in a memory care facility, robotic pets for dementia patients could be a great compromise. But it's not just memory care — some assisted living and independent living communities may also restrict pet ownership. A robot pet might be an ideal alternative for seniors in these living spaces.

Research has shown that seniors with dementia may also benefit from these lifelike animal toys. A 2017 study found that a seal-like robot pet, PARO, helped lower stress and anxiety in older adults with dementia. A 2021 review also noted the benefits of robotic pets for dementia patients. Positive outcomes included improved mood, social connection, and feelings of companionship.

A robotic pet can be a low-maintenance alternative to a real pet, and research suggests that they can benefit seniors in similar ways. For example, some older adults form a strong bond with their robotic pets. These companions can offer comfort and ease loneliness. For some seniors, robotic pets can bring a new sense of purpose to their lives.

Studies have also found seniors with robotic pets sometimes interact more with other people. They might share their pets with other robotic pet owners or talk to family about their companions, which can improve communication and socialization and further reduce feelings of loneliness.

Seniors also don't need tech skills to use their robotic pets. There's no need to set up Alexa or use remotes or extra equipment. Most of these pets react by touch or sound, so a simple pet of the hand or saying "Hi!" invites a response.

As helpful as robotic pets can be for seniors and people with dementia, they may not be the right option for everyone. Some challenges associated with robot pets include:

• Emotional Impact: Seniors can become highly attached to their robot pets, to the point that a malfunction may cause distress.
• May Cause Confusion: Some older adults have difficulty understanding that a robot pet isn't real, which can cause confusion regarding the level of care needed for the pet.
• Need Occasional Cleaning: Seniors may want to bring their robot pets everywhere, including outside or at meal times. Regular cleanings are important to reduce germs, but some seniors may not be able to clean them without help.
• Affordability: Robotic pets with minimal interaction can cost $40-$70. More interactive robot pets can cost $100-$200, which can be inaccessible for some.

Cats and dogs are the most common types of robot pets for adults and seniors. But some brands also sell robotic birds, seals, and other animals to suit your preferences. They also come in a few styles with varied features that cater to different needs or uses.

• Sleeping: These robotic pets stay in a sleeping position and mimic real pet breathing. They might help seniors enjoy watching or cuddling sleeping animals.
• Animated: Animated robot pets for seniors move their heads, wag their tails, and make noise. They're often ideal for seniors who prefer more lifelike pet interactions.
• Responsive: These robot pets respond to sensory information like speech or touch, which helps them feel more lifelike. For example, some robotic birds start singing when they hear real birds outside.

You can buy robot pets online from manufacturers like Joy for All and Perfect Petzzz. Larger retailers like Amazon and Walmart carry robotic companions, as do online shops that carry products for people with dementia. However, large retailer robot pet options aren't always targeted toward seniors and may feel more toy-like.

Ask a local memory care provider or senior center for help locating a robotic pet in your area if you'd rather shop in person.

Some robot companion pets may be more suitable for your loved one than others, just like real pets. Keep the following factors in mind when comparing options.

What does your loved one enjoy and find comforting? A robot pet that's easy to use and calming — like those that have realistic sleeping movements and sounds — could be a good choice for a senior who wants a pet to nap with. Others that are more lively and interactive might help seniors with dementia feel more connected to their pets.

Robot pets typically cost $40-$200 as a one-time purchase, which may be too expensive for some. Look for financing options through the online store you're buying from. For example, many online shops partner with "buy now, pay later" companies, which allow you to split a purchase into several payments.

Some hospice and senior-focused organizations donate robot pets to qualifying seniors. Your local area agency on aging may be able to point you toward an organization that can help.

Consider whether your loved one prefers dogs, cats, or birds to find the best robot companion. They may find a similar robot pet comforting if they're used to having a specific type of pet around.

Also, pay attention to the size of the pet. Your loved one might feel overwhelmed by a medium-sized dog companion if they've only had small lap dogs.

Robot pets won't replace a real animal for everyone. But for some seniors, they offer a sense of comfort, connection, and purpose. When choosing a robot pet, consider your loved one's budget, favorite animals, and how much interaction they enjoy.

• Doll and pet therapy for dementia. (n.d.). The Alzheimer's Store.
• How pets contribute to healthy aging. (2019). University of Michigan Institute for Healthcare Policy and Innovation.
• Koh, W.Q, et al. (2021). Impacts of low-cost robotic pets for older adults and people with dementia: scoping review. National Library of Medicine.
• NYSOFA's animatronic pet initiative. (n.d.). New York State Office for the Aging.
• Petersen, Sandra, et al. (2017). The utilization of robotic pets in dementia care. National Library of Medicine.
• Robotic companion pets. (n.d.). Capital Caring Health.