FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: YONKERS OFFICE FOR THE AGING LAUNCHES ROBOTIC PET PILOT PROGRAM AIMED AT ADDRESSING SOCIAL ISOLATION AND DEPRESSION AMONGST YONKERS SENIORS.
Program is in Partnership with New York State Office for the Aging and Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services.
YONKERS, NY – September 20, 2021– Mayor Mike Spano today announced the Yonkers Office for the Aging (YOFA) has joined the New York State Office for the Aging and Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services for its new robotic pet program. The initiative is aimed at addressing social isolation and depression amongst aging Yonkers residents.
Through the program, each participant is given either a robotic pet cat or dog, designed by Joy for All Companion Pets, that have life-like qualities including sound and movement. The cat pets open and close their eyes, purrs, lifts their paw, opens their mouth, moves their head and body, and have synthetic, soft, brushable fur. The dog pets bark, move and respond to voices.
“Social isolation and loneliness can affect the physical and mental health of older adults, including those with cognitive impairment,” said Mayor Spano. “I am elated to know that the Yonkers Office for the Aging decided to introduce a program to our seniors that brings fun and play, during this time when it is needed most.”
Through case management services, YOFA program participants are selected based on:
Ø Their score on a loneliness scale
Ø Their expressed level of interest in receiving a robotic cat or dog
Ø Whether they are clients of Yonkers Office for the Aging’s case management system
All participants will be re-evaluated at various stages and will keep their pets.
“Social Isolation has been a major challenge during the pandemic, especially for our seniors who are some of our most vulnerable residents,” said Westchester County Executive, George Latimer. “These pets have brought them much joy and comfort during a time of need, and we are happy to partner with the New York State Office for the Aging and Yonkers on this important initiative, to address depression and loneliness among our seniors.”
New York State Office for the Aging Director, Greg Olsen added, “The use of animatronic pets to combat social isolation and loneliness among older adults has been well established. We are thrilled to partner with the Yonkers Office for the Aging to distribute these pets to socially isolated older New Yorkers that we know will improve their quality of life.”
Director of Yonkers Office for the Aging, Kelly Chiarella added, “These robotic pets are an innovative means to reduce our seniors’ loneliness while also improving their health and well- being. When making wellness calls and assessments, our YOFA case managers make it a point to ask about their pets. We hope the robotic pets help to bring joy, comfort and companionship.”
Yonkers Office for the Aging also combats social isolation through their four congregate nutrition programs that serve as social hubs. YOFA continues to provide monthly virtual activities to clients who choose to participate online. For additional information, contact Yonkers Office for the Aging at (914) 377-6822.
Yonkers Office for the Aging provides services to Yonkers residents 60 years of age and over. There is no fee for any Office for the Aging service. Voluntary contributions are suggested for meals and transportation. Programs are funded by the City of Yonkers and federal and state grants through NYS and Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services.
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