Wilma the robotic cat wows Winders residents

A realistic robotic therapy cat is the latest member of Bolton Clarke’s Winders Lodge residential aged care family at Banora Point.

Wilma looks and responds like a real cat but is an advanced therapeutic tool for people with dementia with sensors that respond to touch and a variety of stimuli.

Bolton Clarke Winders Lodge Diversional Therapist Sue Todd said Wilma arrived on May 15 to a group of “surprised but elated” residents.

“Residents have been overjoyed with the new addition – she purrs and responds to touch and even rolls over like a real cat,” she said.

Wilma assists with reducing anxiety that can be experienced by residents with dementia and provides a social connection that encourages people to engage and interact.

“She is also a comfort for people who have left a pet behind and an opportunity for reminiscing about pets,” said Sue.

Bolton Clarke is working across the organisation to provide individualised support for people who are experiencing changed responses resulting from dementia with a variety of built form and service initiatives, including the world first interactive digital wall at its Galleon Gardens community at Currumbin Waters.