Over 31,000 Animatronic Pets Delivered to Isolated Older New Yorkers; Data Shows Pets Help Reduce Loneliness, Isolation and Pain
The New York State Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) today announced it is launching phase 6 of its animatronic pet initiative and phase 2 of its intergenerational game project in partnership with Ageless Innovation, delivering 4,725 animatronic pets and games to older adults through New York State’s aging network. Since 2018, NYSOFA has distributed 31,500 animatronic pets to older adults who are socially isolated and lonely – a program that has since been replicated in over 30 states.
The lifelike animatronic pets are designed to make realistic sounds and motions, providing comfort and companionship to older adults. Data shows that the pets are making a positive impact. NYSOFA found that 75 percent of older adults receiving these pets reported a reduction/significant reduction in loneliness as well as a 75 percent decrease in pain.
The Joy for All games include Scrabble Bingo, Trivial Pursuit Generations, and Game of Life Generations. The games, which launched in 2023 in partnership with Hasbro, have been reimagined to be even more fun and better suit the needs of the older adult community; features include larger fonts and intergenerational gameplay and storylines. In 2024, Ageless Innovation anticipates adding more game titles to its portfolio, expanding its licensed partnership with Hasbro to continue launching innovative, reimagined games for their audience.
NYSOFA Director Greg Olsen said, “NYSOFA, in partnership with our aging services network, is proud to continue these initiatives that are helping thousands of New Yorkers across the state. We’ve initiated multiple innovative solutions, bolstered by technology, to connect people, provide companionship, and significantly reduce isolation and its consequences. Proudly, I can say data shows our efforts are working and exceeding expectations. We are proud of our six-year partnership with the team at Ageless Innovation and the Association on Aging in New York.”
NYSOFA works with Area Agencies on Aging and community partners to identify individuals who are isolated and lonely and could benefit from receiving pets. The initiative has been supported in recent state budgets as part of a package of innovative programs through NYSOFA to address social isolation and provide support for caregivers. Individuals who are interested can contact their local office for the aging or can use New York’s discount code – NYS20.
Visit NYSOFA’s webpage on social isolation initiatives to learn more about the animatronic pet initiative and other related programs. Additionally, NYSOFA and Ageless Innovation are continuing to partner with local aging and health services organizations to host “Reach Out and Play” events. These intergenerational game events are part of a national initiative that is bringing together generations for game play. Learn more about upcoming “Reach Out and Play” events here.
