As Thailand enters a super-aged society, “loneliness” and “depression” have become silent threats affecting many seniors. Owning a real pet can be costly and challenging for hygiene reasons. Thus, “therapeutic pet robots” have emerged as an innovative alternative, serving both as companions to ease loneliness and as medically recognized therapeutic tools worldwide. Thairath Online explores research and notable brands to improve the quality of life for your loved ones.
Data from the Department of Mental Health indicates Thai seniors are at risk of depression and cognitive decline due to lack of social interaction. While pet therapy can help, limitations like housing restrictions (condos/apartments), allergies, and fall risks from real pets create challenges. Therefore, “therapeutic robotic pets” fill this gap by using AI and sensors to detect touch and respond like real living beings.
A review of studies from Thailand and abroad reveals compelling evidence confirming the effectiveness of therapeutic pet robots, as follows.
A study from the University of Plymouth in the UK and research published in JAMDA (Journal of the Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine) found that using the robotic seal “PARO” with dementia patients helped reduce anxiety levels and lowered psychiatric medication usage in some cases.
Research from Japan confirms that touching and interacting with therapeutic pet robots stimulates oxytocin secretion—the hormone of love—and decreases cortisol, the stress hormone.
In Thailand, therapeutic robots have been introduced in leading hospitals and elderly care centers such as Chulalongkorn Hospital and Borirak Thai Center (Siriraj Hospital). They found seniors respond positively, smiling more and engaging in more conversation when interacting with these robots.
Currently, various robotic pets have been developed for different purposes, ranging from cute companions to medical therapy devices, including:
Currently in Thailand, Joy for All products are available through online stores, health product shops for seniors, mental health clinics, and elderly care centers nationwide. PARO is costly and sold via medical equipment distributors. Qoobo can be found in IT stores within department stores.
Therapeutic pet robots are not merely expensive toys but innovations that help fill emotional gaps in the elderly community. While they cannot fully replace love from family, research confirms their effectiveness in stress relief and reducing loneliness. For families seeking companionship for seniors, these robots represent a worthwhile and safe investment in mental health.