Morris Leader

The Morris County Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming (ADCP) has partnered with local organizations to provide robotic companion pets to seniors. This initiative aims to address social isolation, loneliness, and cognitive decline among the elderly population in the county.

The program distributed over 110 "Joy for All" robotic pets to eligible residents and facilities. The initiative was funded by the Aging American Rescue Plan. The Morris County Sheriff's Office received 20 of these pets for clients in its Project Lifesaver program. Additionally, 12 pets were donated to the Cornerstone Adult Day Center, and each of the county's 12 nutrition sites adopted a pet. Another 40 pets were given through the Nutrition Home Delivered Meals program, while Hope House will distribute an additional 25.

Christine Hellyer, Director of ADCP, along with Sheriff James M. Gannon, discussed this program on New Jersey 101.5 FM. Hellyer stated that addressing social isolation and dementia care required a creative approach: "The 'Joy for All' companion pets have been the focus of rigorous, peer-reviewed studies demonstrating their efficacy to alleviate many of the effects of loneliness and social isolation." She emphasized that distributing these pets through partnerships was essential.

To qualify for a companion pet, recipients must be at least 60 years old, homebound, and either socially isolated or experiencing dementia or similar conditions. These robotic animals are designed to mimic real pets and provide companionship without requiring care like live animals.

Commissioner Director Christine Myers highlighted the importance of supporting seniors: “By providing these companion pets, we’re not only offering comfort but also reinforcing our commitment to honoring and supporting our seniors who have contributed so much to our community.”

Sheriff Gannon expressed his support for the initiative: “Anytime the Sheriff’s Office can provide comfort to those in need, we are going to do it."

The robotic pets respond to motion and touch; cats purr and roll over while dogs bark and wag their tails. Recipients can name their new companions as they wish.

Hellyer hopes to expand this program further: “It’s the best of both worlds for these homebound individuals.” The county is exploring more strategies and funding opportunities to grow this initiative.