One experiment which introduced lifelike robotic cats to a nursing home in New York recently concluded that the mechanical felines are effective for soothing elders.

As a new addition to the Hebrew Home at Riverdale in the Bronx, the robotic cats became an instant hit among the residents there, especially for those struggling with dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

Though the cats are not real, they still bring joy to the residents, according to Mary Farkas, director of therapeutic activities at the Hebrew Home.

"I think some residents in some moments do know, and some residents in other moments don't know. And the truth is that it doesn't really matter. As long as they're experiencing joy and dignity, we follow their journey wherever it takes them and we support the journey wherever it goes," she said.

The Hebrew Home’s parent company, RiverSpring Health sees the robotic cats as an important supplement to its live pet therapy program, not a replacement.

"The live animals go home at the end of the day. But for the residents who live and suffer with Alzheimers disease, sometimes it's the evening and nights that create the most distress. And the robotic cats are available to our staff and to our residents all through the night and on the weekends when some of our pets are not here," said Daniel Reingold, president and CEO of RiverSpring Health.

Hebrew Home currently has 34 robotic cats, and has ordered an additional 16.

"She's a very very good cat. No trouble at all since I got her. Nothing. She's just wonderful," said Jeanette Rotanz, a resident at Hebrew Home.
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