Mechanical Pets Help People with Dementia at Upstate University Hospital

Upstate University Hospital in Syracuse, N.Y., offers mechanical companion pets to people diagnosed with dementia, reports WSYR . These lifelike companions have demonstrated the ability to mitigate depression, increase social engagement, and bring comfort to seniors. "The pets normalize the experience of being in the hospital," said Upstate Assistant Director of Nursing Kelly Dolan. Although a mechanical pet is a far cry from living pets, Dolan noted that "the response has been wonderful." She added that the pets were made possible by the Upstate Foundation.