This November, Reformed Church Home is thrilled to announce our participation in the Furry Friends Project, an initiative brought to life by Ageless Innovation. This heartwarming program is designed to enhance the quality of life and care for our residents through the integration of assistive robotic pets.
What Is the Furry Friends Project?
The Furry Friends Project introduces Assistive Robotic Pets to skilled nursing and life plan communities. Backed by evidence-based practices, these lifelike companions provide therapeutic benefits for residents, particularly those with dementia. The project is fully funded through a CMP Reinvestment Program grant, meaning there is no cost for participating communities like ours.
The Benefits of Robotic Pet Therapy
Research has shown that robotic pet therapy can:
- Provide engaging and meaningful activities for residents with dementia.
- Improve overall well-being by reducing anxiety and symptoms of depression.
- Foster a sense of purpose and joy.
- Encourage engagement with fellow residents, staff, and family members.
This innovative program is not only a source of comfort and companionship but also a tool for healthcare professionals to better support residents in their care.
How the Program Works
The Furry Friends Project provides:
- Companion Pets: A delightful mix of robotic pups and cats that deliver person-centered engagement.
- Project Management: Ensuring the program’s success and sustainability.
- Staff Training: Comprehensive guidance to help our staff maximize the benefits of robotic pets and seamlessly integrate them into care practices.
- Ongoing Support: Quarterly calls with a Project Success Manager to address challenges and celebrate milestones.
Evidence-Based and Widely Adopted
The program’s evidence-based approach has been implemented in over 1,000 sites across the United States, demonstrating significant improvements in residents’ quality of life.
Bringing Smiles and Comfort This Holiday Season
As we prepare for the holiday season, Reformed Church Home & the Furry Friends Project promises to bring joy, comfort, and connection to our residents and their families. These robotic companions will not only provide emotional support but also help create meaningful moments for everyone involved.
We are excited to embrace this innovative program and invite our community to share in the joy it will bring. Stay tuned for updates and stories as we introduce our new furry friends to Reformed Church Home!