| Since April is National Stress Awareness Month and April 30 is National Pet Therapy Day, our guest interview is with Ted Fischer, Founder and CEO of Ageless Innovation and its line of “Joy for All Companion Pets.” Ted talks about the therapeutic effect of robotic pets for older adults and those with dementia or Alzheimer’s who may not be able to manage pet ownership. He also debuts the company’s newest pet – the Walker Squawker – a red cardinal bird and tells us the story about the bird’s development and how it helps older adults with mobility. |
Ted Fischer – Founder and CEO of Ageless Innovation 
Caregiver Wellness News
Since April is National Parkinson’s and Autism Awareness Month, Sherri shares some of the latest trends in activities and workplace training to include adults with autism, she also talks about a breakthrough biotherapeutic for Parkinson’s patients developed by French researchers. Special recognition is given to organizations that support autism and Parkinson’s disease including Holly Robinson Peete and Rodney Peete’s HollyRod Foundation, Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research and the Parkinson’s Foundation.
Sherri also shares the latest report from the National Poll on Healthy Aging about pet ownership among older adults since the pandemic and provides insights on pet ownership at home, pet therapy visits at home and pet therapy at Silverado Senior Living for memory care residents. She also lists several resources for pet and equine (hippotherapy) therapy.
Pop Culture
For this episode’s Pop Culture segment, Sherri shares her favorite animal movies – from the classic Disney animated films of her childhood to the tear-jerker real life drama or laugh-out-loud comedy movies that remind us that while we feed our pets, they feed our souls. When caregivers need a little break – stream one of these pet classics!
Well Home Design News
Sherri shares the latest news in home design to accommodate pets, particularly for older adults. Also, news about Lowe’s and PetCo partnership, a new line of pet products from country singer and dog lover, Trisha Yearwood, apps and programs to help with dog walking and other pet care and re-homing services for your loved one’s pet if they can no longer care for their pet.
Meet Penny!
Our sweet, furry guest makes a surprise visit at :53 – Penny the wonder dog!
Me Time Monday Wellness Hack
This episode celebrates April 30 National Pet Therapy Day and the many positive health benefits of pet ownership – whether real or robotic. It’s all part of Sherri’s upcoming book, “Me Time Monday – The Weekly Wellness Edit for a Wonderful Life.”
RESOURCE LINKS
Ageless Innovation and the full line of “Joy for All Companion Pets”
National Poll on Healthy Aging for the full report about pet ownership among older adults since the pandemic
Silverado Senior Living – pet culture integrated into memory care communities
American Kennel Club – list of reputable and recognized dog therapy organizations
Animal Health Foundation (currently still on hiatus due to the pandemic)
Equus Foundation – equine (horse) therapy
American Hippotherapy Association – equine (horse therapy)
Apps for dog walking & other care: Rover, Wag!, Task Rabbit, Next Door
PACE (Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) includes a pet care help in some of its local programs. The one in Los Angeles is PAWS LA that provides financial aid for pet services for seniors
Joyful Pets – re-homing services if you have lost a loved one and need to find a home for their pet
HollyRod Foundation – wonderful foundation supporting those with autism and Parkinson’s disease
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
Sherri’s articles related to this episode
Holly Robinson Peete’s Most Challenging Role – Sandwich Generation Caregiver (PBS Next Avenue)
Healing Power of Pet Therapy (PBS Next Avenue)
Robots vs. the Real Thing in Pet Therapy (PBS Next Avenue)
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