Robotic Pets Bring Comfort to Homebound Morris County Seniors

Over 110 robotic pets were distributed through a county initiative to combat loneliness and cognitive decline.

In an effort to support Morris County’s senior community during the holiday season and beyond, the Morris County Office of Aging, Disabilities, and Community Programming (ADCP) has distributed more than 110 “Joy for All” robotic companion pets to qualifying residents and facilities. The initiative, funded by the Aging American Rescue Plan, aims to address social isolation, loneliness, and cognitive decline among seniors.

“Our aging community is a vital part of Morris County, and their well-being is our priority,” said Commissioner Director Christine Myers, liaison to Human Services. “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.”

How the Program Works

To qualify for the program, participants must be at least 60 years old, homebound, and either socially isolated or experiencing dementia or a similar cognitive condition. The lifelike pets, designed to mimic real cats and dogs, respond to motion and touch, with features such as rolling over, purring, barking, and tail wagging. Recipients can name and keep their robotic pets as long as they wish, offering a personalized and comforting experience for those who may be unable to care for live animals.

In October, Christine Hellyer, Director of the ADCP office, and Sheriff James M. Gannon appeared on New Jersey 101.5 FM to discuss Morris County’s “Joy for All” companion pets program.

“When addressing social isolation and dementia care, we wanted something creative approach. The "Joy for All” companion pets have been the focus of rigorous, peer-reviewed studies demonstrating their efficacy to alleviate the many of the effects of loneliness and social isolation,” said Christine Hellyer. “The partnership with the Sheriff’s Office to distribute the pets was an essential component of this program. In total, about 120 companion pets were provided to seniors or senior programs that could benefit from them.”

The robotic pets were distributed across the county through partnerships with various programs and organizations:

• 20 pets went to clients in the Morris County Sheriff’s Office Project Lifesaver program, which supports individuals at risk of wandering due to cognitive impairments.
• 12 pets were donated to the Cornerstone Adult Day Center, with additional pets adopted by each of the county’s 12 senior nutrition sites for communal use.
• 40 pets were provided to seniors through the Nutrition Home Delivered Meals program.
• 25 pets are being distributed by Hope House, extending the program’s reach even further.

Sheriff Gannon, who personally delivered a companion pet to a Project Lifesaver client, emphasized the program's importance. 

“Anytime the Sheriff’s Office can provide comfort to those in need, we are going to do it. This simple act of support provides aid to those who are homebound,” said Gannon. “We look forward to seeing the tremendous benefits of this program being passed on to a sometimes forgotten population in our community.”

Future Plans

Hellyer expressed optimism about expanding the “Joy for All” companion pet program, stating that the county is actively exploring funding opportunities to reach more seniors in need.

“They bring joy without the need for cleanup, which is a great perk,” said Hellyer. “It’s the best of both worlds for these homebound individuals.”

The initiative highlights Morris County’s commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by its aging population, particularly during the holiday season, by providing comfort, companionship, and a sense of belonging.