OAPs will be dragged into the future in a £1million government pet project — with robot cats and dogs to keep them company.
The techno animals will be given out to 1,300 people receiving social care as part of a Department of Health trial.
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The cash will also be used to develop AI face scanners to recognise when someone is in pain.
The “robopets” look like stuffed toys but have motors to move their heads and wag their tails.
Health chiefs hope they will help those with dementia, communication problems after a stroke, or learning difficulties.
Studies have also found having them around reduces loneliness, stress, anxiety and depression and helps to banish boredom.
In turn, this frees up time for busy carers and relatives, as well as helping elderly people live independently in their own home for longer.
The taxpayer-funded trial takes part in Milton Keynes, Luton and other parts of Bedfordshire.
A health source said: “Affordable robot pets have potential for improving the wellbeing of care home residents and people with dementia.”
Social care minister Helen Whately yesterday added: “As the care needs of our population grow, technology will play an increasingly important part in social care.”