The world may seem to be at a standstill right now, but not everyone has been forced out of work by the current situation. Many essential workers have given it their all over the last few months to help keep things going. It’s hard to find the words to thank them for their efforts, but these kids’ drawings in Times Square do a pretty good job.

Hundreds Of Applications

The artwork, which is on display until July 10, was created for the social media campaign #CreateThanks. Over 450 pieces were designed by children across the United States, all with the intention of showing appreciation to the nation’s essential workers. The winners were selected by Shutterfly and included seven-year-old Kelli-Rose Simpson Forde, five-year-old Xavier Garcia, and four-year-old Amarry London Alhassan.

Essential Workers In The Family

All three of these lucky winners are well aware of the importance of essential workers because their relatives make up part of this important workforce. For instance, Kelli-Rose’s grandfather is a transit worker who has been keeping the daily commute going for those who currently still have a job to go to. As for Xavi and Amarry, the former’s aunt is a nurse’s assistant while the latter’s mom is a physician’s assistant. Their work in the healthcare industry has obviously been vital during this difficult time.

The Perfect Location

The children were all equally surprised and delighted when they saw their artwork appear on one of the Times Square billboards. To have their work broadcast on such a big screen to thousands of people every day is truly something special. This spot was intentionally chosen for its popularity, with Shutterfly hoping that many of New York’s essential workers will see the thank you messages and know their efforts are appreciated.

It’s hard to show these workers just how grateful we are for the sacrifices they’ve made in recent months. However, this artwork is definitely an excellent start.

Loneliness is something that affects a lot of senior citizens, particularly in 2020. Fortunately, robotic pets have now been developed that can fight this, providing elderly people with a loyal companion that’s easier to care for than the real thing.

Too Much Hassle

According to UCLA Health, petting animals is actually good for you. It reportedly releases hormones like serotonin and prolactin, which can help lift your mood and relax you. Of course, while this might be the case, you can’t get a pet on this basis alone. Most house animals require a lot of care and attention, something that senior citizens can’t necessarily provide on a regular basis. Thankfully, these new robotic pets don’t require so much dedication.

Designed For Them

Ageless Innovation has designed Joy For All Companion Pets, a line of robotic animals made specifically for senior citizens. The technology in these toys is advanced enough to respond to sound, light, and touch, giving them an authentic feel without the need for constant attention. The hope is that these companions will be able to help those feeling isolated and stressed, because having a pet can do wonders for your mental health.

A Range Of Benefits

It seems these animals can do more than just give a senior citizen some company. One residential home in New York apparently uses these pets in favor of other substances for those suffering from dementia. They provide comfort and calm to those who get agitated in their confusion, thereby making their lives easier.

Also, as the CEO of the nursing home pointed out, the robotic animals are great for boosting the residents’ self-esteem too. That’s because having these pets gives them back some control. They have a chance to be a caregiver to someone else again, rather than it always being the other way around.

These robotic pets sound like an excellent invention for senior citizens, especially in a year like 2020.