To combat Alzheimer's illness, a local youngster employs realistic pets.
Luke Torrey, 17, alongside his grandmother and her companion pet named Smokey 2. (Litzky Public Relations)
Luke Torrey of Redmond, 17, is on a quest to battle loneliness and cognitive decline in older individuals across the state, inspired by his grandmother who has Alzheimer's disease.
Torrey revealed that his grandma was suffering from "some type of neurological illness" some years ago. He said that her memory began to deteriorate once she was isolated from COVID-19.
Torrey said a family friend gave his grandma a Joy for All Companion Pet that looked like one of her childhood cats to help her relax. He claims the lifelike, interactive plush animal is intended to relieve loneliness and offer connection to those who get it.
“At first, she was a little confused,” he said. “But as soon as she realized, it was one of the most life changing experiences – not only for her, but for me. I realized that this feeling was something I wanted to give to other people.”
