A memory support neighborhood might be the last place you’d expect to find baby harp seals. And yet, sitting on the laps of residents in the living room at RiverWoods Durham’s Newfound Lodge, there they are: Neil and Lucille.
With plush white fur and wide, puppy-dog eyes, Neil and Lucille look every bit like real animals. They wriggle, coo, and blink up at you, eliciting the same emotions a beloved pet would. But these seals are no ordinary companions, they’re therapeutic robots designed to bring joy, comfort, and meaningful connection to those living with dementia.
Meet PARO, the Robotic Baby Seal
Neil and Lucille are part of the PARO family of robotic baby seals, officially recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as “Class II medical devices” (the same designation as a wheelchair). Equipped with sensors that respond to touch, sound, light, and even temperature, PARO reacts by moving, cooing, and blinking.
For individuals living with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia, Neil and Lucille provide more than companionship. They help reduce stress and anxiety, promote social interaction, and increase engagement. Residents who spend time with them often experience moments of calm, joy, and laughter.
At RiverWoods Durham, Neil and Lucille are just one example of how technology supports our mission: to give residents opportunities for purpose, choice, and connection at every stage of their journey.
Technology in Memory Support
In our memory support neighborhood, technology is not a replacement for human care but a tool that enhances it. Each innovation is carefully chosen to support well-being, foster connection, and improve outcomes for residents and staff alike.
iN2L (It’s Never 2 Late)
A touchscreen system preloaded with hundreds of applications, iN2L offers everything from games and virtual travel to an extensive library of music, videos, and articles. It’s designed for both group engagement and individual enjoyment, allowing residents, families, and caregivers to connect with what inspires and fulfills them regardless of cognitive or physical ability.
Mobii Magic Table System
This interactive projection system brings games and activities to tables, beds, and even the floor. The games are designed without winners or losers, which reduces frustration and empowers residents through positive play. Activities can be as simple as swiping away falling leaves or as creative as collaborating on digital artwork.
Sound Baths
Each evening, residents can opt into a soothing sound bath to cue relaxation and signal bedtime. Following the calming sequence, gentle pink noise continues through the night, supporting deeper, more restful sleep, which is often cited as a key contributor to overall health.
Sleep Mats
Specialized sleep mats discreetly track residents’ sleep cycles, helping healthcare teams identify patterns such as restlessness or frequent waking. This data allows staff to tailor care and improve sleep quality, which in turn supports better health outcomes.
More Than Technology: The Human Touch
No piece of technology can replace the compassion, connection, and expertise of our staff. At RiverWoods Durham, every tool is paired with person-centered care delivered by a highly trained team.
RiverWoods Durham is currently pursuing the Memory Care Seal of Excellence, which requires at least half of licensed staff to complete the Certified Dementia Practitioner course – a 12-hour training in addition to the monthly dementia education already in place. This commitment to education ensures our team is always equipped to combine the latest tools with best practices in compassionate memory care.
Design That Supports Well-Being
The physical design of our memory support neighborhood also plays a vital role in resident success. A household-style layout offers the familiarity of home, with central dining and living rooms at the heart of the community. Circular floor plans provide safe pathways for residents who may experience wandering, while minimizing overstimulation and fostering independence.
These thoughtful design elements encourage socialization, boost confidence, and help residents feel comfortable in their surroundings.
A Holistic Approach to Memory Support
At RiverWoods Durham, we believe technology and design should enhance – not replace – the human connection at the center of care. From PARO the robotic baby seal to advanced sleep monitoring and personalized engagement tools, every element of our memory care program in Durham is chosen with one goal in mind: helping residents live each day with purpose, dignity, and joy.