ID: photo of a person sitting in a wheelchair facing away from the camera.
At My Ability Pathway (MAP), meaningful outcomes often begin with listening – really listening – to a person’s history, preferences, and what brings them comfort.
For one of our clients – who lives with Down Syndrome and Dementia and is non-verbal – this approach led to the introduction of a simulated pet through Dementia Support Australia, championed by MAP’s Support Coordination team.
The idea was sparked during a visit from a Behaviour Practitioner, who took the time to understand the client’s background. A simple but important detail stood out: she had always had dogs. Building on this, the practitioner arranged for a simulated pet to be introduced – something familiar, comforting, and aligned with her lived experience.
The introduction itself was calm and intentional. While seated at the dining table, staff gently placed the simulated pet in front of the client, modelling interaction by softly stroking it and speaking to it. What followed was a natural progression – initial observation, then curiosity, and soon, active engagement.
Since then, the impact has been clear.
The client presents with a noticeably happier and more positive mood, regularly engaging with the pet through touch and exploration. She strokes it, activates its sounds, and spends time interacting with its different textures – from its ears to its paws – often smiling throughout. These moments of sensory engagement have become meaningful parts of her day.
For a client who communicates non-verbally, connection looks different – but no less powerful. She now points to the simulated pet to gain staff attention, inviting shared interaction and creating opportunities for connection. What may seem like a small gesture is, in reality, a significant form of communication and choice.
This outcome is a strong reflection of what person-centred practice looks like in action. By exploring creative, tailored supports, the team has enabled greater emotional expression, engagement, and enjoyment – supporting the client to connect with the world around her in a way that feels natural and meaningful.
Behind this outcome is proactive and thoughtful Support Coordination. Recognising an opportunity to better support the client, the Support Coordinator reached out to Dementia Australia for guidance. This led to a referral to Dementia Support Australia, with consent from the client’s nominee – ultimately opening the door to a tailored intervention that has made a real difference.
Understanding Simulated Pets in Dementia Care
Simulated pets are therapeutic tools – often robotic or plush animals – designed to replicate the look, feel, and responsiveness of real pets. Commonly used in dementia care, they provide comfort and emotional connection without the responsibilities or risks associated with live animals.
They can help reduce anxiety, agitation, and social isolation, while encouraging sensory engagement and nurturing behaviours such as holding, stroking, or interacting with the pet. For individuals with limited verbal communication, simulated pets offer a powerful non-verbal way to express emotion and build connection – supporting wellbeing in a way that is both gentle and deeply personal.
For more information on virtual simulated pets visit: https://www.dementia.com.au/resource-hub/the-use-of-simulated-pets-in-dementia-care
Photo by Steven HWG on Unsplash
