Abstract
Dear Editor:
We have read Brecher's article, titled “Use of a Robotic Cat to Treat Terminal Restlessness: A Case Study,” with great interest. 1 The author reported that the use of robotic cats may have a role in alleviating terminal restlessness. We would like to highlight additional points of discussion regarding this case study.
First, it is wonderful that the 90-year-old veteran was able to spend quality and calm time with his family and loved ones in his end of life and achieved a good death.
Second, we think that the use of a robotic cat was not the only factor in alleviating his terminal restlessness. When he was admitted at the author's treatment center, his Functional Assessment Staging Tool (FAST) score was 6C. 2 However—unfortunately—about a month later, his FAST score had increased to 7C. Considering the speed of this progression and the trajectory of dementia, we would like to point out the possibility that this initiative and activity would gradually decrease in the course of the dying process. 3
Furthermore, infection control is a major concern regarding the use of robotic cats. When we used a robotic seal (PARO), we paid close attention to infection control. We wonder if Brecher took any such infection control measures.
Previous research has reported that using a robotic cat can increase well-being and quality of life in patients with dementia. 4 Therefore, there is undue focus on using a robotic cat among patients with terminal dementia. There is no doubt that Brecher's study provided useful data in this regard. It would be wonderful if the uses of robotic cats in palliative care for terminal restlessness are further researched and developed.