For patients in the Acute Care for Elders unit at Zuckerberg San Francisco General, recovery can be a lonely endeavor. Thanks to an Equity and Innovation Grant, a new pilot program has started this year, providing patients with cognitive decline a friendly companion during their stay.

A study conducted by Columbia University found that these robotic pets lowered pain and anxiety in hospitalized children. And the benefits of these furry companions doesn’t end there, not requiring the typical upkeep of a real pet, patients can enjoy the great parts of having an actual cat or dog without having to worry about walking or feeding them.

“Whether a pet is living or not, it really doesn’t matter its about the opportunity to connect and feel connected.”

CEO SFGHF Kim Meredith

With 50 new robotic cats and dogs available, the ACE team is excited to offer this new form of therapy to their patients.