Robot pets, baby walkers, tool kits, and music players: all are part of an updated resource library at the Hospice of Anchorage that is now free to local families.
Amy Tribbett, executive director of the Hospice of Anchorage, said the expanded resource library was made possible by funding from the CARES Act. The items available for distribution are designed to help community members living with dementia, life-limiting illness, or grief.
The idea of acquiring some of the items – like the robot pets – came about during the long, lonely months of the pandemic.
“The stories of isolated seniors, that’s what really impressed us,” she said. “First of all, you know, the assisted living patients with dementia who couldn’t have visitors, we thought, gosh, a pet would be great.”
“The (robotic pets) offer dementia patients this calming feeling,” said Tribbett. “It is also known to reduce the isolation older people feel. And it gives them the opportunity to take care of something. “
Other new items in the Anchorage Resource Library include fidget blankets and tool kits, both designed specifically for people with dementia. Fidget blankets have features like hook and loop fasteners, zippers and buttons, as well as other sensory items like a hair tie. They can help calm Alzheimer’s or dementia patients whose fingers become restless when they are anxious or excited.
“It offers several sensory options,” said Tribbett.
The tool boxes are also filled with sensory items – including a wind turbine. Tribbett said she experienced the magic of the pinwheel working with patients at a previous hospice company.
“We had a volunteer who was sitting with a patient with dementia and the patient wasn’t responsive, so she pulled out this little pinwheel and blew it. And the dementia patient looked at her with wide open eyes and smiled, ”said Tribbett. “It was still non-verbal. But that was the first communication the volunteer had with this patient. “
Hospice of Anchorage currently has more than 75 robo-pets and 75 fidget blankets in stock. Alaskans can call the Hospice of Anchorage at 907-561-5322 to request any library resources, which Tribbett says are given as free gifts rather than temporary loans. Roadside pick-up is possible.
The resources available include:
• Incontinence needs
• Books about dementia, nursing, grief, cancer, chronic illness and end of life
• Prepaid prescription cards
• Travel vouchers for transportation to doctor’s appointments
