Technology to enhance the relationship between the elderly and their pets
As they get older, the elderly are often forced to give up owning a pet, despite the benefits of such a relationship. What if technology could help preserve this precious bond? This could potentially slow down the loss of autonomy. This is the subject of Hazar Zilelioglu's thesis, which brings together academic and industrial partners, with the support of Carnot TSN.
France, like many other Western countries, is undergoing a phase of demographic transition, resulting in an ageing population. Against this backdrop, the issue of ageing well and keeping elderly people at home is a major one. The day-to-day presence of a pet can have a number of beneficial effects on an elderly person, providing emotional support, maintaining social ties, reducing feelings of loneliness, physical activity, etc.
Unfortunately, from the age of 65 onwards, the rate of pet ownership falls by 50% every decade*. This is due to financial constraints, a deterioration in physical ability, and even health problems. Could technology help to slow this trend, by helping to maintain and support the bond between an elderly person and a pet?
