Page 10 THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, AUGUST 21, 2026 1. On Aug. 21, 1878, what legal group (ABA) was founded in Saratoga Springs in New York? 2. In what month in 2027 will there be a total solar eclipse? 3. How are dent, fl int and sweet similar? 4. On Aug. 22, 1902, what car company was founded and named after a former Acadia resident who had a coat of arms that inspired the car’s crest? 5. What is the Sunshine State? 6. In “Oliver Twist,” what is served before Oliver says, “Please, sir, I want some more”? 7. On Aug. 23, 1723, a Boston minister/Harvard president with the last name Mather died; what was his fi rst name: Increase, Temperance or Tobin? 8. What opera that debuted in Boston in 1935 has the song “Summertime”? 9. What musical instrument was originally made from the skin of an entire animal? 10. August 24 is National Waffl e Day; on that day in 1869, NYC’s Cornelius Swartwout patented what kind of waffl e iron for safer cooking? 11. NYC’s fi rst subway station, City Hall, is lit by skylights and what (French word)? 12. In the French Quarter of what city is a museum that was the home of America’s first licensed pharmacist? 13. On Aug. 25, 1609, who demonstrated his telescope in Venice? 14. What is a Krabby Patty? 15. In 1914 the Red Cross created Longfellow’s WHALE tales for safety around what? 16. In what country is, according to Guinness World Records, the tallest outdoor elevator? 17. August 26 is National Toilet Paper Day; the fi rst commercial toilet paper (1857) was said to relieve what condition? 18. Do all U.S. states have counties? 19. What books and rag dolls did American author Johnny Gruelle create and patent? 20. On Aug. 27, 1955, what statistical book was first published that was created out of brewery manager Sir Hugh Beaver’s endeavor to settle pub arguments? Answers Robotic Pets Can Provide Comfort to Elderly Seniors Dear Savvy Senior, My mother, who has dementia, recently moved into an assisted living facility that doesn’t allow pets. I’m thinking about getting her a robotic pet to cheer her up. Are they worth it, and if so, which one do you recommend? --Inquiring Daughter Dear Inquiring, It’s completely natural to want to bring a little furry joy into your mom’s life. Moving into a new home without her pets can be tough, and sometimes even a small companion can make a big difference. Robotic pets — lifelike, interactive companions — can brighten the days of seniors with dementia in ways you might not expect. They’re more than just cute gadgets; they off er comfort, companionship, and a sense of purpose, along with plenty of smiles and fun. Before you pick one, here’s what you should know. Why pets matter Pets aren’t just cute — they’re family. They bring happiness, companionship, and even a gentle sense of routine. Studies have shown that pets can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, encourage light activity, and improve overall wellbeing. They can also provide a sense of connection, which can be especially grounding for seniors living with cognitive changes. Unfortunately, many seniors, like your mom, have to give up pets when they move into care facilities or can no longer care for them on their own. That’s where robotic pets can step in. Many studies have shown that robotic companion animals can improve quality of life by off ering comfort, interaction, and a sense of companionship. Still, it’s important to remember that not all seniors connect with robotic pets. Some may ignore them completely, while others enjoy holding them or respond positively to a lifelike companion that reacts and even “talks back.” Best options If you’re looking for a hightech option, Jennie, a new Labrador puppy from Tombot (tombot.com), is the most impressive option available. Soft, cuddly, and very lifelike, she reacts to touch and voice, moves naturally, and even barks on command. A smartphone app lets you name her, customize her behavior, and track interactions. She runs on a rechargeable battery and is expected to cost around $1,500, with fi - nancing available. Jennie is currently on back order, with new units expected this summer or fall, so interested buyers may need to join a waitlist. If that’s more than you want to spend, Joy for All Companion Pets (joyforall.com) are a wonderful alternative. These cats and dogs cost $160 or $180 and respond to touch with purring or barking. They can move their heads, lift their paws, and open and close their eyes. With soft, brushable fur and a gentle “heartbeat,” they feel surprisingly real. They also give seniors a comforting routine, like stroking or “feeding” their pet, which can be both calming and engaging. For seniors who use a walker, the Walker Squawker bird ($65), also available from Joy for All, attaches to the device and chirps when the walker stops moving. It responds to touch and sound, off ering a playful companion and gentle encouragement to stay active. Small touches like this can make a big diff erence in lifting spirits and keeping seniors engaged. Robotic pets aren’t a replacement for real animals, but they can bring companionship, comfort, and joy to seniors who can no longer have a furry friend. They are especially well-suited for seniors with dementia, providing interaction, routine, and a sense of connection. Whether you choose a sophisticated option like Jennie or a more affordable Joy for All pet, these interactive companions can turn moments of loneliness into smiles, connection, and a little extra joy every day. Send your questions or comments to questions@savvysenior.org, or to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5, Norman, OK 7070. 1. American Bar Association 2. August 3. Types of corn 4. Cadillac (Antoine de la Mothe Cadillac, founder of Detroit) 5. Florida 6. Gruel (a thin porridge) 7. Increase (He was said to drink healing water from Spring Pond in Essex County.) 8. “Porgy and Bess” 9. Bagpipes (The pipes were positioned in place of the legs and neck.) 10. Stovetop, instead of one placed over a wood fi re 11. Chandeliers 12. New Orleans (New Orleans Pharmacy Museum) 13. Galileo 14. A veggie burger sold by The Krusty Krab in the TV series “SpongeBob SquarePants” 15. Wa t e r ( WHALE stands for Water Habits Are Learned Early.) 16. China (Bailong Elevator, 1,070 feet up a cliff ) 17. Hemorrhoids (marketed as “The Greatest Necessity of the Age”) 18. No; Louisiana has parishes, as it has a history of Catholicism; Alaska has boroughs and Census Areas due to its small population. 19. Raggedy Anne and Raggedy Andy 20. “Guinness Book of Records”
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