“Therapy cat” helping elderly with dementia

A “THERAPY cat” has taken residence at a Sandiacre care home to help those living with dementia.

The mechanical cat was bought for residents living at Longmoor Lodge Care Home, on Longmoor Lane, by a district nurse team from Derbyshire Community Health Services.

Made especially for those living with dementia, the tabby cat has motion and touch sensors that trigger sounds and movement like a real cat.

District nurse Sue Waterhouse came up with the idea before sharing it with fellow team sister Karen Tennant.

Alongside fellow team members, they decided to swap buying gifts and cards for each other at Christmas and instead buy the cat for the care home.

Karen said: “I though it was a lovely idea from Sue. We all chose Longmoor Lodge as they are the only care home we visit and dementia is close to the hearts of all of us, as we all know someone who has been affected.”

Sarah Day, activities coordinator at Longmoor Lodge Care Home, said: “When Sue and Karen approached me with the idea of buying a therapy cat or dog for the home we were all so grateful.

“We decided on a cat as they would more naturally sit on residents’ knees and be stroked while they relax in their chairs.

“It works so well for residents with dementia as it brings back fond memories, as well as comfort and companionship, and delivers a soothing, joyful experience.

“We’d all like to thank the district nurse team for the lovely gift. The cat is so lifelike and is already proving popular with everyone.”