Great Oaks invests in robotic technology to boost residents’ health and wellbeing
Residents from Great Oaks care home in Bournemouth have benefited from the addition of two new robotic animals as part of the home’s pet therapy sessions, Biscuit the robotic dog and Arthur the robotic cat. Great Oaks is already home to the residents’ pet budgie called Smuggler which often brings a smile to everyone’s face when he starts to sing.
It has been recognised since Smuggler was introduced to the home, that he has encouraged social interaction and visibly reduced stress and anxiety in residents with dementia. Biscuit the robotic dog and Arthur the robotic cat are a welcome addition to the home’s dedicated pet therapy sessions. Biscuit responds to touch and speech, just like a real dog would, making him the perfect companion.
Arthur mimics a cat’s typical behaviour by meowing, purring and lifting its paws in response to speech. Michele Blake, wellbeing manager at Great 
Oaks, explained: “Animals have always been part of our varied care programme at Great Oaks due to the positive impact they have on our residents’ wellbeing and overall health. However, the recent investment into the robotic pets means that our residents now have access to them throughout the day and can pet them for longer.
“One of our residents had been quite unsettled one morning and soon after she interacted with the cat, she appeared much calmer while stroking it, and told everyone how lovely her new pet was. We always welcome new ways to grow and enhance the high standard of care which we provide and look to incorporate new technology into the home that is going to benefit our residents.”
Great Oaks is managed by Encore Care Homes, with two other care homes in Christchurch and Fareham, and a fourth due to open in Poole later this year. The 80-bed care home is fitted with state-of-the-art facilities, designed to enable staff to provide the highest standard of 24-hour, personalised care and ensure residents are comfortable and happy in their surroundings.
Please visit www.greatoaksbournemouth.co.uk for more information or call 01202 476960.
