Community Hospice & Palliative Care Receives Robotic Cats and Dogs for Patients
April 6, 2021 (Gainesville, Fla.) - Community Hospice & Palliative Care recently received a donation from Elder Options, provided through The Florida Department of Elder Affairs, of 100 lifelike robotic cats and dogs to help comfort socially isolated seniors and adults living with Alzheimer’s Disease and related dementia.
“Community Hospice & Palliative Care is committed to serving patients and families as well as the communities we live and work in,” said Billie Adkins, North Central Florida Regional Director. “It is a privilege to partner with Elder Options to bring joy to our most vulnerable community members.”
These cuddly robotic pets don’t need to be fed or taken on walks, they are considered a low-maintenance option for people who are no longer able to care for a pet. The Community Hospice & Palliative Care team will distribute the robotic pets to social workers across the organization to be used to help decrease stress and anxiety for patients with dementia.
“We are thankful for the Elder Affairs grant and the opportunity to share these wonderful pets with our patients,” Wendy Crews, Community Relations Representative said. “The smile on their face as well as the focus that it gives the patient is a blessing to not only them but the caregivers as well. It helps the patient remain calmer and busy. They are truly amazing tools for our dementia patients.”
About Community Hospice & Palliative Care
Established in 1979, Community Hospice & Palliative Care is an innovative national leader in palliative and hospice care, as well as providing programs and services to meet the diverse needs of the communities it serves. During its 42-year history, through the support of more than 1,000 employees and 1,000 volunteers, the organization helps approximately 1,600 patients per day to live better with advanced illness – at home, in long-term care and assisted living facilities, in hospitals and at its 10 inpatient care centers. No one is ever denied care due to an inability to pay. To learn more about the support and services of Community Hospice & Palliative Care, visit CommunityHospice.com