The National Science Foundation has awarded a $1 million grand to Brown University and Hasbro to create a robotic cat that has artificial intelligence. And the purpose of this strange invention is to help senior citizens by providing them with a companion and also help them perform simple tasks.

Robodogs are also available, and they’ve been on the market for a couple years now, but the National Science Foundation wants to take the technology to the next level. The RoboDogs and RoboCats would be capable of reminding elderly people to take their medication, for example, as well as help with simple tasks.

Hasbro would be tasked with building the actual robotic animals, while researchers at Brown are determining what kind of tasks the cat would be needed to handle, like finding lost items or providing reminders. It’s important research that could even keep seniors out of the nursing home for longer.

“JOY FOR ALL Companion Pets are designed to bring comfort, companionship and fun to elder loved ones,” Hasbro states on their website. “With realistic fur and pet-like sounds – and sensors that respond to petting and hugs with familiar pet-like actions – Companion Pets deliver a soothing, joyful experience that inspire smiles, laughter and fond memories for people of all ages.”