Reducing loneliness and improving well-being among older adults with animatronic pets

Aging Ment Health. 2021 Jul;25(7):1239-1245. doi: 10.1080/13607863.2020.1758906. Epub 2020 May 2.

Abstract

Background: Studies consistently demonstrate that older adults who are lonely have higher rates of depression and increased mortality risk. Pet ownership may be a solution for loneliness; however, challenges related to pet ownership exist for older adults. Therefore, researchers and practitioners are examining the use of animatronic pets to reduce loneliness.

Objective: To determine the feasibility of an animatronic pet program, and whether ownership of animatronic pets would decrease loneliness and improve well-being among lonely older adults.

Methods: Eligible individuals were identified as lonely through a prior survey. Participants were provided with the choice of an animatronic pet and completed T1/T2/T3 surveys.

Results: Attrition was high; 168 (63%) participants completed T1/T2 surveys, and 125 (48%) also completed a T3 survey. Post survey data indicated that loneliness decreased, while mental well-being, resilience, and purpose in life improved. Frequent interactions with the pets were associated with greater improvement in mental well-being and optimism.

Conclusions: Animatronic pets appear to provide benefits for the well-being of lonely older adults. Future studies should employ randomized controlled designs examining the impact of animatronic pets.

Keywords: Loneliness; animatronic pets; older adults; quality of life.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Loneliness*
  • Mental Health
  • Ownership
  • Pets*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires