Aug 2021
The Story of David and Millie
Sunday 8th August was National Cat Day and we thought this would be the purr-fect time to share the story of one of our residents, David, and his cat Millie
When David first moved into Orchard House, he had to find a new home for his beloved cat, Millie, and at times became distressed whilst missing her.
However, after taking advice from the team at the home and an OSJCT Admiral Nurse, David’s daughter decided to buy him an interactive robotic cat (known as a robocat) for his birthday.
Robocats are designed to respond to sound, touch, and motion. They offer an alternative to pet therapy and have been proved to reduce social isolation and distress amongst older adults as well as those suffering with dementia. In David’s case, it was recommended that the chosen robocat had a strong resemblance to Millie to help bring further companionship into David’s life.
David took to the robocat, also named Millie, straight away and she has hardly left his side since. David talks and interacts with Millie which has helped to reduce agitation and falls within the home environment.
Nicola Millar, Home Manager at Orchard House, said: “Millie has made a real difference here. She interacts, purrs, moves, and meows when stroked. Time spent with Millie has enhanced wellbeing and brings a smile to David’s face each day. It’s a pleasure to watch the interaction and joy that Millie brings to David, and how content and settled he is within the home as a result.”