Residents of Local Assisted Living Community 'Adopt' Stuffed Animals

The Watauga Democrat reports that residents "adopted" stuffed animals at the Deerfield Ridge Assisted Living Community in Boone, N.C., at a recent event organized by the Watauga Dementia Project. The event was part of the project's efforts to distribute stuffed and robotic animals to dementia patients and all other residents of the community. "We figured that everyone could enjoy the event and the comfort of a stuffed animal, especially after the feelings of isolation imposed by the COVID-19 restrictions," said Project Coordinator Tyler Mancini. Each resident could select and name their animal, receive a polaroid, and sign an "Adoption Form" agreeing to love and care for their new pet. "It is amazing to think that something so simple as a stuffed animal would be so comforting and bring so much joy to each and every one," said Deerfield Ridge Social Director Lorie Fidler. "The residents have not let go of their new pets and enjoy telling staff and other residents all about their special friend."