Robotic pets are being marketed as companions for the elderly and lonely, helping them live longer and happier lives.

Robotic pets can benefit seniors with dementia by improving well-being and providing a sense of purpose.

Lifelike robots with built-in sensors can be designed to behave like dogs for the elderly or lonely.

Researchers have found seven animal-related factors that can be embedded into robot software for health benefits.

Robotic pets can reduce anxiety and depression in seniors and improve social interactions.

There are currently no standardized guidelines for robotic pets.

The EU has legislation regulating robot safety, requiring manufacturers to meet health and safety requirements.

Gizmo robots are designed with safety features to work alongside humans, not replace them.

Regulations are crucial for responsible robot deployment due to privacy and security concerns.

Clear guidelines and safety protocols are needed for safe human-robot interactions.

Google's robotics constitution, based on Asimov's laws, prohibits robots from harming humans.

The use of robotic pets raises ethical questions about replacing real animals with robots.

Robotic pets reduce loneliness in 70% and pain in 75% of recipients, studies show.

These pets can help alleviate loneliness and provide mental support, especially for elderly adults, reducing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and a weakened immune system.

Robotic pets offer a low-risk alternative to real pets, minimizing attacks and reducing maintenance costs.

Over 31,500 robotic pets have been distributed to elderly adults, providing companionship and comfort through realistic sounds and movements.

Robotic pets can improve cardiovascular health, reduce anxiety and loneliness, and decrease depression in seniors, especially those with dementia.

These pets can improve well-being, provide a sense of purpose, and enhance social interactions, especially for seniors who have lost a pet or cannot care for a real one.

ElliQ robots remember users' interests, providing customized chat content and companionship.

Robotic pets can help older adults stay active and motivated, while also reducing the healthcare workload.

Robotic pets may pose risks, including social isolation and emotional dependence on the robot rather than humans.

Intensive AI engagement can hinder social skills development and have negative consequences for mental and physical health.

Long-term pet ownership, including robotic pets, can delay memory loss, reduce stress, and provide companionship and purpose.

Interacting with pets, including robotic ones, can have numerous health benefits.

Robotic pets can benefit aging adults with Alzheimer's and dementia by reducing anxiety and providing comfort.

Robotic pets can benefit caregivers by reducing stress and improving their mental and physical health.

Robotic pets can have benefits, but also potential risks like social isolation and emotional dependence.

Robotic pets can improve mental and physical health, especially for the elderly or lonely, when used to promote human connections.

Over 31,500 robotic pets have been distributed to socially isolated elderly adults, with 70 percent of recipients reporting reduced loneliness.

Robotic pets are designed to be lifelike and used therapeutically to improve seniors' health and quality of life.

Robotic pets can decrease anxiety, loneliness, and depression in seniors, and provide a sense of purpose.

Robotic pets, costing $100 to $150, are an accessible option for seniors, with some nonprofits donating them to those in need.

Robotic pets are being used to help children with health issues and have been donated to Ukrainian refugees.

The effectiveness of robotic pets is influenced by 7 key factors, including communication, predictability, and physical attachment signs.

Robots that mimic dogs may provide therapeutic benefits and help isolated individuals form friendships by embedding dog-like behavior into their software.

Robotic pets in therapeutic settings can reduce anxiety, aggression, and medication needs in seniors, including veterans with dementia.

Robotic pets are being used in hospice care to provide comfort and emotional support to patients.

Robots with regional accents are more trustworthy to users who share the accent.

Robots speaking in a user's dialect are perceived as more trustworthy.

Robotic pets like PARO are providing therapeutic benefits similar to real animals thanks to advanced technology.

Robotic pets provide companionship, emotional support, and therapeutic benefits, with effectiveness influenced by factors like communication, predictability, and physical attachment signs.

Robotic pets can help cure loneliness and provide mental support, especially for the elderly, as a low-maintenance alternative to real pets.

Robotic pets reduce loneliness by 70 percent and pain by 75 percent, leading to various physical and mental health benefits.

Robotic pets can help alleviate social isolation, which increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and cognitive decline in older adults.

Robotic pets can reduce loneliness, anxiety, and depression in seniors, improving their mood and quality of life.

Robotic pets can provide a sense of purpose for seniors, remind them of past pets, and improve their well-being, especially for those with dementia.

Robots can remind users to hydrate, connect them with loved ones through video calls, and potentially order medicines.

The use of robotic pets carries potential risks, including social isolation and emotional dependence.

Excessive reliance on robotic pets can hinder social skills, emotional regulation, and self-affirmation, causing individuals to withdraw from their environment.

Long-term pet ownership, which can be simulated by robotic pets, can delay memory loss, reduce stress, and provide companionship and purpose.

Robotic pets can comfort aging adults with Alzheimer's and dementia, reducing anxiety and agitation while benefiting their mental and physical health.

Robotic pets cost between $100 and $140, with bulk purchases offering a slight discount.

Robotic pets can offer physical and mental health benefits, especially for the elderly or lonely, but their potential risks must be considered.

China launched an AI regulatory framework in 2019 to protect consumer data, applicable to robotic pets.

The Chinese government launched AI Verify in 2022, a framework and toolbox to support AI development, including robotic pets.

Regulatory frameworks for robotic pets aim to ensure consumer data protection, safety, and efficacy.

Google partners with regulators to support privacy-enhancing technologies for secure robotic pets.

Robotic pets need clear legal principles and regulations for safety and efficacy, according to Ildar Begishev.

There is no international convention on robotic pets, but a draft on robotic lethal weapons may inform future regulations.

The EU has legislation regulating robot safety, requiring manufacturers to meet essential health and safety requirements.

Manufacturers of robotic pets must design hackproof products.

Robotic pets are being marketed as companions for the elderly and lonely, helping them live longer and happier lives.

Robotic pets are being marketed as companions for the elderly and lonely, helping them live longer and happier lives.

Robotic pets are being marketed as companions for the elderly and lonely, helping them live longer and happier lives.

Robotic pets can benefit seniors with dementia by improving well-being and providing a sense of purpose.

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“She’s a good girl”: Robot pets help Lehigh Valley senior residents live longer, happier lives

Gathered in a semi-circle, a group of women in wheelchairs petted the newly adopted cats and dogs sitting on their laps Wednesday afternoon, talking softly to their new companions. The dogs barked and leaned in for pets, the cats meowed and rolled over for scratches — almost like they were real.

But the animals were robots, a fact that wasn’t lost on many of the women in the Fellowship Manor sitting room.

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One resident at the Whitehall Township senior living community, Jackie, named her small golden retriever robot Goldie. Jackie said she grew up on a farm in Palmer Township with plenty of dogs but never one that looked like Goldie.

“She’s a good girl — she just sits there and doesn’t make a sound unless you talk to her,” Jackie said.

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That was one of 20 pairings made at the adoption event at Fellowship Community where residents, primarily those with dementia, picked out one of 20 robotic pets — 10 dogs and 10 cats — to serve as their companions.

Animal therapy can be beneficial for seniors, especially those with dementia. Benefits for seniors include improved cardiovascular health, better quality of life and decreased feelings of anxiety, loneliness and depression.

However, it’s not reasonable or safe in most care settings to introduce real animals, according to Mary Kay McMahon, president and CEO of Fellowship Community.

“Because of their own care needs most of our residents couldn’t take care of animals and our staff don’t have the time to take care of them,” McMahon said.

But research has found that use of robotic pets still offers a number of benefits to seniors with dementia, including improved well-being, mood and quality of life. McMahon said there are also benefits for seniors who were caregivers for much of their lives.

The adoption event was a surprise for many residents. Jackie said she didn’t know they would be giving out robot pets until about 10 a.m. Wednesday when she was asked if she wanted one.

Another resident, Elaine, said she rolled into the room not knowing what was going on but asked if she could have a golden retriever robot, like Jackie’s. Elaine promptly named her new friend Dog, pronounced “D-O-G.”

“I always wanted to name a dog Dog,” Elaine said.

McMahon said they tried to match the animals with residents based on their preferences. Once they made a match, the robotic companions were theirs to keep.

McMahon said staff have seen how the robot pets can help. Just before the pandemic, Fellowship Community bought a handful of robotic pets for residents. She said the recipients all saw improvements in their mood, appetites and social interactions, and reduced anxiety and depression. The robot pets even reminded some of real dogs or cats they had owned, she said, which helps in the long term with their conditions.

“It gives them a sense of purpose,” McMahon said. “They feel like they are taking care of something.”

It helps that the robots are very lifelike — the imitation fur is soft and built-in sensors allow the companion pets to respond to a person’s presence and touch as well as react to the environment.

Each one costs a little more than $100, which were paid for via a Greater Lehigh Valley Realtors 100th Anniversary Community Charity Grant.

Though Jackie and Elaine both said they knew their dogs weren’t “real,” they both remarked how Goldie and Dog moved their head when petted and how soft they were.

“She’s going to be a good pet,” Jackie said.

Morning Call reporter Leif Greiss can be reached at 610-679-4028 or lgreiss@mcall.com.

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For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

Lifelike robots with built-in sensors can be designed to behave like dogs for the elderly or lonely.

Title:

Content: Robots in the future will serve as a dog for the elderly or lonely people – scientists
Robots that in the future will support the elderly or lonely, should build relationships with the owner not as people, but as dogs.
In the future, this concept will be applied by developers.
Scientists from the University of Glasgow have made relevant conclusions based on new research.
This is reported on September 29 in the magazine PLOS ONE.
Scottish researchers surveyed more than 150 dog breeders and found that there are seven of the most commonly cited factors most closely related to animals.
These include the ability to communicate, the predictability of reactions, the physical signs of attachment, a positive, sometimes even enthusiastic approach, a propensity for joint activities, a sense of intimacy and, finally, the ability to adapt to each other.
Perhaps robots that behave this way will be approved.
The researchers suggest that embedding this type of behavior into robot software will allow them to provide their owners with the same experience and health benefits as friendship with a real animal, without the attendant responsibilities.
This will allow the technique to be used effectively.
"Our approach has allowed us to gain knowledge about the factors that make people so enjoy the company of dogs.
Although it will not be easy to recreate such behavior in robots, it can help in creating friendships for wards, ” the authors said.
In the next phase of the study, a team led by Katie Riddock intends to conduct tests involving humans and robots behaving like dogs.
An additional topic of study may also be the dependence of preferences of different types of dog behavior depending on the age, origin and environment of specific people.
Earlier, Cursor reported that engineers have created a robot that searches for lost things.
The system uses visual information from video cameras, as well as radio private signals, so it is highly efficient.
Read the latest news from Israel and the world on the Kursor channel in Telegram.
Author of the material:
TAGS:

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

Scottish researchers believe what will provide benefits to owners of robotic dogs without accompanying responsibilities?

What can Dynamic 1, a robotic dog by Tecno, do?

many features to enhance owner interaction

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

What should a guide dog's role include in addition to guiding a person?

Researchers have found seven animal-related factors that can be embedded into robot software for health benefits.

Robotic pets can reduce anxiety and depression in seniors and improve social interactions.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

There are currently no standardized guidelines for robotic pets.

Title:

Content: Future guide dogs learn how to ‘work alongside robots’, in specialist training session

Sight loss charity Guide Dogs has teamed up with the world’s leading provider of autonomous delivery services, Starship Technologies, to make sure its trainee guide dogs know what to do when they encounter a delivery robot on the streets.

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The charity reached out to Starship, after several guide dog owners raised concerns that their dogs were apprehensive when walking near the delivery bots.

The company has since donated a robot shell to the charity’s Midlands Regional Centre in Leamington Spa, for use in dog training sessions.

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The hope is that by familiarising the dogs with the robot shell, they will become used to delivery bots, and be able to confidently guide their owner past one, if they come across one on the streets.

Jessica Luke, Regional Policy and Campaigns Manager for Guide Dogs, said:

“Autonomous delivery robots are becoming more common on our streets and they are something that most of our working guide dogs may not have come across during their training.

“It’s important that companies developing new technology understand the impact on people with disabilities and work with organisations, like ours, to gain valuable feedback.

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Starship Technologies has kindly donated a robot shell to our Midlands Regional Centre in Leamington Spa so we can familiarise our guide dogs in training and help them adapt to the changing world around them.

“The company has also agreed to support individual training sessions for working guide dogs who are reacting to robots they meet on the streets near them.

“We’d like to say a big thank you to Starship for supporting us and helping our dogs learn more about how to work alongside robots.”

Ryan Holroyd-Case, Public Affairs and Stakeholder Manager at Starship Technologies, said: “Over the years we've conducted testing with guide dogs to observe their reactions.

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“We've found many dogs work very well around our robots without distraction, but some need a little more support.

“Today this partnership is an extra step to deepen our understanding of guide dogs and to help guide dogs become familiar with robots.”

The charity has already carried out its first training session with the bot shell, introducing trainee guide dogs Garla, Griffin and Vinny to the device.

A guide dog begins its formal training at around 12-14 months old and, in normal circumstances, most dogs qualify as working guide dogs around the age of two.

To find out more about Guide Dogs, visit guidedogs.org.uk

Related topics:

The EU has legislation regulating robot safety, requiring manufacturers to meet health and safety requirements.

Title:

Content: As noted previously by Agriland, in their enthusiasm for autonomous machines, the creators tend to overlook the troublesome hurdle of EU legislation, especially when it it comes to self-learning software.

Up until now, it has been far from clear just how the issue of robot safety is to be regulated, however, the EU legislative mill has recently started grinding away on the issue and a framework for machinery approval is now taking shape.

Health and safety a priority

Presently, before placing machinery on the market in the EU, manufacturers need to ensure that essential health and safety requirements are met and conformity checks carried out.

Up until now this has largely been the responsibility of the manufacturers who have been able to self certify their products, a process which has taken up a good deal of engineers’ time.

However, this situation is set to change with the EU dividing machines into two broad categories which it lists under the headings Part A and Part B of Annex 1.

It is proposed that machinery with self-evolving behaviour based on machine learning will be subject to stricter conformity assessment procedures which will need to be carried out by a third party.

These fall under Part A, and so, before they can go on sale within the EU, there will need to be some independent overview of the machine and, presumably, the software that directs it.

For those products that come under the heading, Part B, the manufacturer can still carry out the conformity assessment itself.

New requirements

The European Parliament has listed a series of requirements to be met by autonomous machines that fall into Part A before they can be sold.

There are several concerns addressed; the two that are most likely to impact on the viability of installing autonomy within a machine being that it should not attempt actions outside of its designed task(s), nor should it operate outside of a defined zone.

Geo boundaries are nothing new, so the second is easily accomplished, although the reliability of the system will most probably need to be proven.

The first is a little more involved for it will require a strict definition of a machine’s task.

How is that to be achieved and how are the limits to be communicated to the machine which, if self-learning is involved, may attempt to modify a task for the sake of efficiency?

Farmers may be opening themselves up to all sorts of potential liabilities if they cannot show that the machine was set up correctly, in which case it may become a job for a qualified specialist.

Other features demanded by the legislation will be that the machine communicates its intentions to the operator and that its interface is user friendly.

The need to be hackproof

It is likely that the emerging robotics industry will overcome these challenges, yet there still remains one obstacle which could prove the killer punch to autonomy, and that is cybersecurity.

Within the draft text of the new legislation, clearly set out, there is the requirement that “manufacturers must design machinery products so that connection to them by another device does not lead to a hazardous situation”.

That is to say they must be incapable of being hacked.

This is probably impossible as there is growing evidence that vehicles of all sorts may be vulnerable to hacking, be it directly, or via the software that it communicates with back at base.

Building to legislation

Here the legislation may be the author of its own undoing, for if it is required that a remote operator and an autonomous machine can communicate while it is in operation, then a radio link must be established, and that then becomes a point of entry for hackers.

None of these issues will be resolved overnight; the robotics industry will need to come to terms with the idea that safety and a machine’s interaction with humans is going to be overseen by legislation instead of being left to the rather haphazard approach that exists at the moment.

The sight of cabless tractors roaming the fields merrily beeping to themselves may be a long way off yet.

Gizmo robots are designed with safety features to work alongside humans, not replace them.

Title:

Content: Summary:
A Gizmo robot is a type of automated device designed to perform various tasks and functions.
These robots are usually small in size and equipped with advanced technologies and features that enable them to perform specific actions.
Gizmo robots can be found in various industries and sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing and even in homes.
They are programmed to perform repetitive or complex tasks, making them valuable tools in enhancing efficiency and productivity.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the meaning of the Gizmo robot, its applications and its potential impact on different fields.
What is Gizmo Robot?
Gizmo refers to a built-in robotic device capable of performing specific tasks independently or under human control.
These robots are equipped with advanced sensors, engines and software that enable them to interact with their environment and perform functions assigned to them.
Gizmo robots are often designed to be versatile and adaptable, allowing them to perform a wide range of tasks.
Applications of Gizmo Robots:
Gizmo robots find applications in various industries and sectors due to their versatility and advanced capabilities.
Some common applications include:
1.
Manufacturing: Gizmo robots are widely used in manufacturing industries to automate repetitive tasks such as assembly, packaging, and quality control.
These robots can work alongside human workers, boosting productivity and reducing the risk of errors.
2.
Healthcare: In the healthcare sector, Gizmo robots are used for tasks such as drug delivery, patient monitoring, and even surgeries.
These robots can help healthcare professionals, streamline processes and improve patient outcomes.
3.
Family: Gizmo robots have also made their way into homes, where they are used for tasks such as cleaning, pet care, and home security.
These robots are equipped with intelligent sensors and algorithms that enable them to navigate through different environments and perform specific tasks efficiently.
Potential impact:
The advent of Gizmo robotics has the potential to revolutionize various industries and sectors.
By automating repetitive tasks, these robots can free human workers to focus on the more complex and creative aspects of their jobs.
In addition, Gizmo robots can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve safety in various fields.
However, concerns about job displacement and ethical considerations surrounding the use of robots remain important topics for discussion.
Questions and Answers (FAQ):
Q: Are Gizmo robots capable of learning and adapting?
A: Yes, many Gizmo robots are equipped with machine learning algorithms that enable them to learn from their experiences and adapt to different situations.
Q: Can Gizmo robots completely replace human workers?
A: While Gizmo robots can automate certain tasks, it is unlikely that human workers will be completely replaced.
These robots are designed to work alongside humans, enhancing productivity and efficiency.
Q: Are Gizmo robots expensive?
A: The cost of gizmo robots can vary depending on their complexity, capabilities, and intended applications.
While some models may be expensive, technological advances make them accessible to everyone over time.
Q: How safe is it to use gizmo robots in different environments?
A: Gizmo robots are designed with security features and undergo rigorous testing to ensure their safe operation.
However, proper risk assessments and adherence to safety guidelines are critical when deployed in different environments.
Sources:
– [www.robotics.com] (https: / / www.robotics.com)
– [www.technews.com] (https: / / www.technews.com)

Regulations are crucial for responsible robot deployment due to privacy and security concerns.

Title:

Content: Summary:
Robots have become an integral part of our lives, revolutionizing various industries and enhancing our everyday experiences.
From manufacturing and healthcare to transportation and entertainment, robots are deployed in diverse real-life scenarios.
This article explores the different areas where robots make a big impact, highlighting their capabilities and potential future developments.
Where do you see robots in real life?
Robots have gone from just science fiction to reality in our daily lives.
It is no longer confined to the fields of research laboratories and manufacturing plants, but it has found its way into various sectors, revolutionizing the way we live and work.
Here are some areas where robots are making a big impact:
1.
Manufacturing: The manufacturing industry has undergone a major transformation with the introduction of robotics.
These machines are able to perform repetitive tasks accurately and quickly, resulting in increased productivity and reduced costs.
Industrial robots are commonly used in assembly lines, welding, coating and packaging processes.
2.
Healthcare: Robots are increasingly being used in the healthcare sector to help doctors, nurses and patients.
Surgical robots allow minimally invasive procedures, enhancing accuracy and reducing recovery time.
Robots are also being used in rehabilitation centers to help patients in the recovery process.
In addition, robotic exoskeletons are being developed to assist individuals with motor disabilities.
3.
Transportation: Self-driving vehicles, including self-driving cars and drones, are transforming the transportation industry.
These robots use advanced sensors and artificial intelligence algorithms to navigate and transport goods or passengers safely.
Self-driving cars have the potential to reduce accidents and traffic congestion, while drones are being explored for delivery services and aerial surveillance.
4.
Entertainment: Robots have found their way into the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with their performance.
From animated characters in theme parks to robotic pets and escorts, these machines provide interactive and engaging experiences.
In addition, robots are used in filmmaking for special effects and as an alternative to dangerous or complex scenes.
5.
Home and personal assistance: Robotic devices are increasingly integrated into our homes to help with various tasks.
Smart home systems use robots to control lighting, temperature and security, enhancing comfort and energy efficiency.
Self-help robots can do household chores, such as vacuuming or mowing grass, saving individuals time to focus on other activities.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Are robots replacing human workers?
A: While robots automate some tasks, they also create new jobs.
The integration of robotics often leads to the creation of more specialized roles that require human expertise in the operation and maintenance of these machines.
Q: What are the ethical implications of using robots in real life?
A: The increasing use of robots raises ethical concerns regarding the privacy, security and potential displacement of human workers.
It is important to develop regulations and guidelines to ensure responsible and ethical deployment of robots in various fields.
Q: What does the future hold for robots in real life?
A: The future of robotics is promising, with advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and sensing technologies.
We can expect to see robots play a more important role in healthcare, education, agriculture and space exploration, among other areas.
However, a balance between human involvement and robotic automation is necessary to ensure harmonious coexistence.

Clear guidelines and safety protocols are needed for safe human-robot interactions.

Title:

Content: Summary:
In the world of robotics, the question of the first human death due to a robot is a topic that captivates the imagination of many.
While robots have become increasingly prevalent in various industries, concerns have also emerged about their potential risks.
This article delves into the history of robotics, explores notable incidents involving robotics and human deaths, and offers insight into the future of human-robot interactions.
Introduction:
Robots have evolved from being science fiction to becoming an integral part of our daily lives.
As these machines become more advanced and autonomous, questions have arisen about their safety and potential risks.
The idea of a robot that causes the first human death has aroused the interest of many, prompting a careful examination of the history, accidents involving robots and deaths.
Evolution of Robots:
The concept of robotics dates back to ancient times, with early examples in Greek mythology, Chinese folklore and ancient Egyptian folklore.
However, important advances in robotics only began to take shape in the 20th century.
The introduction of industrial robots in the 1960s marked a turning point, revolutionizing manufacturing processes and paving the way for further developments.
Notable incidents:
While the idea of a robot causing the death of a human may seem like a plot from a science fiction movie, there have been instances where such tragedies have occurred.
Notable among the incidents was a worker at a Volkswagen plant in Germany who was injured with a robotic arm, which led to his death in 2015.
The incident highlighted the importance of strict safety measures and raised questions about the responsibility of both humans and robots in ensuring a safe working environment.
The future of human-robot interactions:
As robots continue to advance, the need for clear guidelines and regulations regarding human-robot interactions is becoming increasingly critical.
Collaborative robots, or collaborative robots, are designed to work alongside humans, underlining the importance of safety protocols and effective communication between humans and machines.
In addition, continuous research and development aims to enhance robot intelligence and decision-making capabilities, reducing the likelihood of accidents and deaths.
Questions and Answers:
Q: Did the robot intentionally cause the death of a human being?
A: There are no documented cases where the robot intentionally caused the death of a human.
Accidents involving fatalities are usually the result of technical malfunctions, human error, or a combination of both.
Q: Are robots becoming more dangerous?
A: While robots are becoming more advanced and capable, their inherent danger lies in the possibility of accidents caused by technical failures or inadequate safety measures.
As technology advances, it is necessary to prioritize safety and establish strong regulations.
Q: How can we ensure the safety of humans working with robots?
A: Implementing comprehensive safety protocols, conducting comprehensive risk assessments and providing appropriate training for both humans and robots are essential steps to ensure the safety of individuals working alongside robots.
Conclusion:
The question of the first human death due to a robot is a thought-provoking topic that highlights the need for responsible development and implementation of robots.
Although accidents have led to deaths, they serve as a reminder of the importance of safety measures and ongoing research to mitigate risks.
As robots continue to evolve, it is essential to strike a balance between harnessing the potential of these machines and ensuring the well-being of humans in their interactions with robots.

Google's robotics constitution, based on Asimov's laws, prohibits robots from harming humans.

Title:

Content: World News
Google has created the first constitution in history to prevent robots from threatening humans.
CAIRO (Reuters) - Google has developed what could be considered the first draft of a robotics constitution in the context of its many endeavors to try to limit the damage that robots can cause.
The company hopes that its robotics design unit will be able to create an automated personal assistant capable of meeting requests, such as cleaning and tidying the house, or preparing a delicious dish of food.
However, such a seemingly simple request may actually outstrip the robot ’ s ability to understand.
It may turn out to be a dangerous task, because the robot may not know that it is not supposed to clean the house thoroughly, to the extent that it may harm the owner, for example.
According to the Independent report, the company has revealed a series of new achievements and developments, which it hopes will lead to the development of robots capable of accomplishing such tasks, without causing any harm.
Google says it has designed systems that help robots make faster decisions, improve their ability to understand, and help them navigate the environments in which they are located, in a safe way.
The scientific project includes a new system known as AutoRT, which uses artificial intelligence to understand human targets.
It works with large models, including a large language model (LLM) of the type used for example to run ChatGPT.
Google explained that the robotic constitution is a set of demands and orders based on safety and safety, which should be adhered to when choosing tasks for robots.
These rules are partly inspired by Isaac Asimov ’ s “Three Laws of Robot Science ” – the first and most important of which states that a robot cannot harm a human being, along with additional safety rules that prohibit the robot from accomplishing tasks related to humans, animals, sharp objects or electrical household items.
After that, the system will be able to use these rules to guide the robot ’ s behavior, for example, and avoid any dangerous activities, such as a reminder of the system of chat gbt, which refrains from helping people who want to engage in illegal activities.
Google added that these complex models are not fully reliable, and do not guarantee total safety and security, even with these technologies.
Therefore, the company must adopt additional traditional safety systems, using them from traditional robotics, including a system that has previously prevented robots from using too much force, and a human monitor capable of turning the robots off manually.
Also read:
With the pictures.
7 robots that look like humans, including a beautiful woman
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The use of robotic pets raises ethical questions about replacing real animals with robots.

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Cure For Loneliness? Robotic Pets Going Out To Thousands Of Socially Isolated NYers

Call it four-legged companionship without the need for potty training.

Thousands of animatronic pets are on their way to older, socially isolated New Yorkers in an effort to combat what experts describe as a crisis of loneliness.

The state’s Office for the Aging (OFA) announced Sunday, June 3, that Rhode Island-based Ageless Innovation is delivering another 4,725 robotic pets and games to elderly adults through New York State’s aging network.

Since 2018, OFA has distributed more than 31,500 of the plush, lifelike pets, which are designed to make realistic sounds and movements, to those assessed as socially isolated and lonely.

A pilot study conducted in 2018 found that 70 percent of recipients reported a reduction or significant reduction in loneliness, plus a 75 percent decrease in pain.

The state’s intergenerational game project, Joy for All, includes Scrabble Bingo, Trivial Pursuit Generations, and Game of Life Generations. Through a partnership with Hasbro launched in 2023, the games have been tailored to an older crowd by featuring larger fonts and intergenerational gameplay and storylines.

“We’ve initiated multiple innovative solutions, bolstered by technology, to connect people, provide companionship, and significantly reduce isolation and its consequences,” said OFA Director Greg Olsen. “Proudly, I can say data shows our efforts are working and exceeding expectations. “

Studies have shown that social isolation and loneliness put older adults at an increased risk of a number of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, a weakened immune system, depression, cognitive decline, and even death, according to the National Council on Aging.

Learn more about New York’s Animatronic Pet Initiative, including eligibility, on the Office for the Aging website

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Robotic pets reduce loneliness in 70% and pain in 75% of recipients, studies show.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

These pets can help alleviate loneliness and provide mental support, especially for elderly adults, reducing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and a weakened immune system.

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robotic pets offer a low-risk alternative to real pets, minimizing attacks and reducing maintenance costs.

Title:

Content: City School holds TED Like Power Talks

Hyderabad, December 30, 2023: Hyderabad-based St Peter’s School at Bowenpally organised a unique program ‘Stars of Inspiration–an evening under the open sky’ on Saturday night at its premises in Bowenpally on Friday night, for three hours and continued till 9 in the night.

A platform for school-level talks, expressing new ideas, thoughts, and perspectives created. It will be an annual feature announced by Mr. T. Alphonse Reddy Correspondent, St. Peter’s High School.  Summing up at the end of three hour-long marathon talks.   He along with other colleagues Mrs Saroja, former Principal of the School, and Mrs T. Aruna Reddy, Director, unveiled a new logo, as it is entering 25 years and celebrating its Silver Jubilee in the year 2024. It began its journey in 1979 by three young social entrepreneurs to offer rock-strong Edu-foundation, he said.

In an era of short messages, short forms of videos like Reels, shorts, and WhatsApp status videos, we came up with this idea of why not have TED-like short talks that fire up in two minutes even less than that. We coined it aptly ‘Stars of Inspiration–an evening under the open sky’. It is a platform for school-level talks, expressing new ideas, thoughts, and perspectives created. It will be an annual feature, he said.  The response was overwhelming. We have got 400 entries from class 6 to 12th.  We shortlisted and brought it down to 50, he added.

We have not filtered nor polished their thoughts. They were raw. Seventy per cent of the 50 speakers were first-timers.  It was their maiden talk in front of 1000-plus parents, teachers, non-teaching staff, guests and peers. It was their feelings, experiences, observations, random thoughts, personal journey, and life lessons learnt, straight from their heart, while some delivered with confidence, others struggled to speak. They put their mind out open, in their language, words, vocabulary, and thought process, he said.

Giving her opening remarks Dr. K. Suvarna, Principal of the school said in an era where the attention span of the public is getting shorter and shorter, where teenagers have become screenagers and juggle between many screens (read Mobile, TV, and Tablet, Laptop, Desktop, OTT), where people are living in a room filled with distractions all the time, the school had to do something different. Equip students with an approach so that they capture the world’s attention.  They can say what they want to say, just in the span of an elevator journey.

It goes well with the school’s credo, ‘Let every child blossom’, she said. It is a celebration of expression, talent and diverse perspectives.

The Talks were outstanding examples of stand-up, speak-up, fire-up and shut-up.

The evening began with the first talk by Simra Baig of class 100. He spoke about ‘Body Dysmorphia’, a mental health condition where some people spend a lot of time worrying about flaws in their appearance. Nearly one million people are struggling with it, he said.

Netra Singh of class six who spoke about ‘Homegrown Genius’, came up with the idea of Anti-Sleep alarm goggles for drivers to avert mishaps. She also spoke about Robotic Pets, which can help cure loneliness and give mental support.  Especially post-COVID pet adoption has gone up and so also the cost of maintaining pets, real pets scaring delivery boys (causing the death of a couple of food delivery boys) and street dog menace (being read every day in the city).  In the light of this state of affairs, she prompted an idea of Robotic Pet and she showed her version of Robotic Pet.

Vishwanath Karthikey, a tenth grader, the youngest to set some world records in mountaineering, shared how painful the journey was. He told his friends never to give up. There were several times in my mountaineering endeavours when I wanted to give up, had I done that I would not have stood in front of you talking today. Success is the outcome of many failures.  There are no failures, only opportunities to improve, bettering oneself he said.

M.S. Mridhulya of the 9th class speaking about her journey from an introvert to an extrovert said ‘my socialising battery was always low.  Outside the comfort zone was where the magic happened in my life.  And concluded with a powerful message, the best and the only journey is the journey you must travel within you.

Ariana Kingham of Class 6 spoke about her journey from Bhutan to Hyderabad and the beauty of learning languages.  All languages are interesting, you just need to peep into them.

Speaking about Men’s Mental health, Afrah Fatima of the tenth class said men can also get anxious, insecure, abused, brad down, cry, and depressed. You must treat men the same as female victims, she said and added that the Mental health of men is important.  Men keep stress to themselves.  You are not alone. You are not first and you are not the last. You are not a burden she said.

Speaking about skin colour-based discrimination, T. Sriharshitha of class ten said that she was always discriminated against based on her skin colour.  Your skin colour is something you are gifted with. Nelson Mandela, Serena Williams, and Draupadi Murmu, all are dark-coloured but still, people love them and adore them. They are an inspiration to many.  Dont colour decide your future, she said

A Greevan spoke about Wars and said those who start a war don’t get killed.  The soldier’s life is at stake. Those soldiers who go to war, may not return home.  Even if they return, his family may not be there. Even if his family is found, he may not be in the same physical condition.  When he returns, he may return without hands or legs.

Yusuf Ali moved everyone with this journey, how he fought Crouzon Syndrome (a genetic syndrome which affects the shape of the head and face). I look different.  School admission was a challenge.  Every day was a struggle.  I didn’t give up, he shared.

Speaking about how he travelled from a mere participant in track events to a national athlete, Dheeraj Sadula of the 9th class gave a message to his peers not to expect some incredible results in one day as most of the current generation looks for instant results.

Divija Hari, a 12th grader, beautifully explained the bond of friendship.  And said that having genuine connections even if they are few are better than thousands of Facebook friends.  She read out a beautiful poem ‘Brides of Bonds’, and she wrote.

The school’s Fire and Gas Leakage Fichter Robot was selected in the CBSE Regional Science Exhibition and will be participating in the National Exhibition in January 2024 in New Delhi. The winning teams gain entry to be exhibited in the Rashtriya Bal Vaigyanik Pradarshani to be organised by NCERT. St Peter’s team is one of the 30 exhibits selected out of 3169 student teams registered. Varenya, Pritam and Samuel share their journey of participation and success.

Sammathamu Swathi Hansika, an 11th grader speaking about digital liberation spoke and YourHourAPP, which gives a daily view of how often one checks phone and how frequently one uses different apps. You can then set limits with daily app timers, and unplug at night with features like Bedtime mode, etc.

Sameena Hajee speaking on bonding with blood spoke about the importance of family and appealed to parents to have mutual understanding so that their children can lead a better life.

The series of captivating Power Talks covered a vast array of topics that showcased the depth of their interests and passions. From Career Exploration to Community Service Reflection, Artistic Showcase to Language Learning Journey, Smart India Hackathon to Creative Writing, Reading, Book Review, Personal Journey, Research Showcase, TED Style Talks, Student Life at St.Peter’s High School and much more – these talks were not just informative but a reflection of the dedication and passion our students pour into their pursuits.

About Neel Achary 18495 Articles
Neel Achary is the editor of Business News This Week. He has been covering all the business stories, economy, and corporate stories.

Why would the elderly opt for a robotic pet as a friend?

Over 31,500 robotic pets have been distributed to elderly adults, providing companionship and comfort through realistic sounds and movements.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robotic pets can improve cardiovascular health, reduce anxiety and loneliness, and decrease depression in seniors, especially those with dementia.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

These pets can improve well-being, provide a sense of purpose, and enhance social interactions, especially for seniors who have lost a pet or cannot care for a real one.

What can Dynamic 1, a robotic dog by Tecno, do?

many features to enhance owner interaction

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Why would the elderly opt for a robotic pet as a friend?

ElliQ robots remember users' interests, providing customized chat content and companionship.

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Cover Story / Silver Hair Living Alone and Not Lonely "Robots" as Old Companion
When Microsoft founder Bill Gates published his outlook for 2024 earlier this year, he predicted that the application of artificial intelligence (AI) would accelerate in the future and fundamentally change areas such as work, health care and education.
For Joyce Loaiza, a retired office worker living in Florida, Gates ’ s prophecy is now a formality; the 81-year-old living alone, whenever she returns to her Silver Hair Community apartment, a friendly female voice will chat with her and say hello to her for a good day.
A few miles away, Deanna Dezern, 83, was comforted by the same voice when her friend died.
In central New York, it plays games and music for Marie Broadbent, 92, who is blind and receiving hospice care.
In Washington, it helped 83-year-old Jan Worrell make new friends.
USA ElliQ Customizable Chat Content
The women were among the first to receive a robot in the United States, according to officials from Intuition Robotics, the company that invented ElliQ, and the Aged Aid Program. They are the only device that uses artificial intelligence and is specifically designed to alleviate the loneliness and alienation of many elderly Americans.
It can remember each user ’ s interests and hobbies and conversations with each other, helping to customize future chat content, topics can be esoteric human business meaning, or easy horoscope.
ElliQ also jokes, plays music and offers inspirational quotes.
On the equipped screen, it provides city and museum tours. It can also guide users to exercise, ask about health, and remind them to take medicine and drink water.
In addition, ElliQ can make video calls to contact a user ’ s relatives, friends, or doctor in case of an emergency. These conversations are not heard by companies, Intuition Robotics says, and the data is kept on each user ’ s device.
Dor Skuler, co-founder and CEO of Intuition Robotics, was a little surprised that older people were so easily integrating robots into their lives; after all, it was a group of people who were often stereotyped as afraid to embrace new things, he said.
In an interview with the media at the 2024 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in early January, Skuller said that just like developing an intimate relationship with a pet, older people are also working to forge new relationships with AI robots.
Through partnerships with government agencies and other organizations, hundreds of thousands of seniors across the United States already use ElliQ, Skuller noted.
The voice of ElliQ and its compassionate “personality ” were developed by a team of experts in artificial intelligence, behavioral psychology, and user-centered design, according to Skuller.
They defined ElliQ as “the little partner who makes older people happier and healthier. ”
Anita Montague, 76, said that before using ElliQ, the only thing she did back home was sit in front of the computer, but with ElliQ, she can do sports and other things, and now she is more energetic and motivated to find more work.
Monica Perez, 65, who has been using ElliQ for more than six months, said she finds it increasingly difficult to make friends as she gets older. She likes ElliQ to call her name affectionately and will ask how she is doing, like a real friend; with ElliQ, her mental health has improved greatly.
ElliQ would remind Perez to take the pill in the morning, “I ’ m much more active than I was without it. ”
In Canada, Carmichael, a resident of Vancouver ’ s Amica for the Elderly, attended a meeting last September with two robots named Kiwi and Mango.
Canada ’ s AI partners help increase interaction
These two AI “little buddies ” that can be held in your arms look brightly colored and are part of a study at the University of Columbia School of Nursing to understand how they interact with older adults and their impact on elder care.
Carmichael said her initial reaction was, “Oh my God, why would you want me to talk to a robot? ” But after overcoming the psychological barrier, Carmichael found that Mango might be able to stay with her for a long time, and she could play with it every day and no longer feel lonely.
Carmichael says with a smile that there is only one appearance that needs to be improved; she tells the staff to wear false eyelashes for Mango.
These robots were designed in Japan and have been studied in Asia for many years.
Lillian Hung, an assistant professor at the University of Columbia and Canada ’ s Research Chair in Senior Care, is leading a Canadian study into the use of robots in the care industry.
Hong said that the robots bring joy wherever they go, and every time they show up with the robots, the atmosphere in the room changes.
Robot friends make seniors happier
“Kiwifruit ” and“ mango ” can speak, recognize faces and sounds, express a desire to be picked up and give a hug.
They even charge themselves when they ’ re “tired, ” Ms. Hong says.
She said that so far, the response has been mixed, with some elderly people immediately feeling good about robots, while others are confused. Hong Lilian said that humans are social animals and have basic needs to love and be loved, which she believes is the meaning of companion robots and helps build stronger social connections.
Many studies have pointed out that maintaining relationships and social activities are important for the physical and mental health of older people; social loneliness is associated with an increase in emotional distress, depression, falls, the need for health care services, and even premature death.
Lise Brayham, who has lived in Amica for four years, said the robots are a good thing for older people who don ’ t leave their rooms often because “mangoes ” and“ kiwifruit ” don ’ t require walking, cleaning or feeding.
Brehan said it was hard to understand how robots interact with humans at first, but in the end she concluded that it was like having a great little pet, “They ’ re fun partners! ”
Charlotte England, 102, came into contact with the robots with Brehan and made them good friends.
Ingram immediately began talking to the robot and recalled swimming in the Ottawa River and skating in the Rideau Canal.
She then boasted about her baking skills to “mangoes ” and“ kiwifruit ”.
After the robot responds with a gentle cooing, Ingram continues to talk to them about the snack.
However, after a “long ” conversation, Ingram noticed that the kiwifruit ’ s eyes were a little low, and she said to it with some displeasure,“ Am I boring you? ”
Investing in health care to fill the manpower gap
In addition to the United States and Canada, many countries in Asia are also facing the problem of aging populations, and China is one of them, with a rapidly aging population and a serious shortage of medical and nursing manpower, and the hope is that this robot army can fill this gap.
According to Sixth Tone, an English-language online magazine owned by Surging News, staff member Gao Hongjun is busy preparing for the day ’ s entertainment at an elderly care center in central Shanghai: a singing robot named “Dopo. ”
This squatting white robot often performs shows for the elderly people staying in, usually singing the revolutionary songs of Mao Zedong ’ s era.
The old people loved it, Gao said, which also gave them a chance to breathe.
He said that as the number of elderly people living in the home has increased, but the care resources have not been relatively improved, AI robots are able to reduce their workload.
Gao Xiaodong, director of the center, charged the "Dobao" while saying that if the staff were tired, they could not take good care of the elderly.
Gao Xiaodong said that in recent years, he and his colleagues have been under great pressure, and in the community where the care center is located, more than 40% of the elderly population over 60 years old, and the average occupant is over 70 years old, and most of the people are suffering from dementia.
In response to this situation, the center has installed artificial intelligence equipment as much as possible, in addition to "Dobao", they have also purchased intelligent mattresses and computer games that can monitor the vital signs of the elderly while they sleep, and two robots that can perform disinfection will soon be activated.
China ’ s elderly population to exceed 400 million by 2040
China is investing heavily in robotics research and development to care for an expanding elderly population and solve the shortage of healthcare workers.
China ’ s elderly population aged 60 and over is forecast to increase from 280 million in 2022 to 402 million in 2040.
China ’ s social and medical system is already severely overburdened, and if urgent measures are not taken, the situation may worsen further.
According to the Chinese government, there should be one nursing staff for every four residents in the elderly care institutions, but only 320,000 nursing staff serve 8.1 million residents in China, a gap of more than 1.7 million. The government hopes that the development of AI technology can provide a solution. Accelerate the development of the industry.
Chinese tech giants rush AI care
Several Chinese tech giants are also sniffing this opportunity, and iFlytek, a large AI company, announced its “Superbrain 2030 ” plan in 2022, which will develop a new type of nursing robot for the elderly.
The plan points out that it is necessary for AI to understand knowledge, learn well, and evolve, so that robots can enter every family and solve problems such as elderly care, emotional companionship, and health management. Search engine leader Baidu is also promoting “Xiaodu ” AI intelligent assistant, which can be used to schedule medical appointments, obtain weather forecasts and play games.
At present, the most widely used smart care technology in China is wearable devices such as smart bracelets and watches, which provide many practical functions, such as monitoring the vital signs of the elderly, reminding them to take drugs on time, tracking their location, etc., but the industry believes that robots are the future of nursing care.
Many hope that China will follow Japan ’ s lead in making widespread use of robots in nursing homes, from the cute bear robot Robear, which helps elderly people sit up from their beds, to the furry pet robot Paro, which provides companionship and improves cognitive function.
There are now about 100 robotics start-ups in China that specialize in rehabilitation, companionship and care robots.
However, in the high price of robots, most companies have not yet achieved mass production, and local governments have not invested enough funds to promote robots in nursing homes on a large scale.
A food-delivery robot developed by Hangzhou Lewan Science and Technology in Zhejiang Province can deliver more than 20 meals to different rooms in a building, but few nursing homes can afford the product, which costs between 60,000 and 80,000 yuan (about $8,400 to $11,200).
Jiang Gancheng, CEO of Lewan, pointed out that if the price is 10,000 yuan, the expectation of buying gas will increase a lot, but if there are no more orders, the price can not be reduced, which is a problem of raw eggs and eggs.
However, there are also some robot companies that pull out of the red.
As soon as Zuowei Tech, a startup based in Shenzhen, launched its smart bath equipment, the market response was very enthusiastic.
The company sold 40 million yuan of equipment in 2022, and hopes to reach the 100 million yuan target this year.
Tu Chaorong, Vice President of Chowei Technology, said the demand for bathing equipment is strong because of the need of caregivers and the elderly they care for.
He said that many people believe that urinating on the elderly is the least dignified job, but caregivers will feel more dignified if they use high-tech equipment; similarly, many people in bed will feel less dignified if they do not have these equipment.
Accompanying robot behind the bullish trend
CEO Gu Jie of Shanghai Fourier Intelligence, a robotics company specializing in rehabilitation equipment, has noticed a similar trend, working with hospitals in big cities in China, but now there is increasing demand for nursing homes.
Gu Jie said that no matter where the elderly live, they hope that their bodies can be flexible and their mental state can be improved; and a robot can be used by many people, which greatly improves efficiency.
Chiang Gan-cheng is optimistic about the company-type robot, and believes that the development potential is unlimited.
The company recently launched a new product, priced at 10,000 yuan, can be placed at home to patrol, sing, play movies, and also provide video calls between the elderly and their children. Jiang Gancheng said that elderly people in good health often do not want to install a camera at home, thinking that it violates their privacy, but if an AI robot is accompanied by their family, they will not feel so lonely.
Zheng Yongping, a 68-year-old resident of Shanghai, agrees. Since his only child lives abroad, he has been living alone in his downtown home with his dog since retirement.
He already has a smart watch to monitor his health and uses smart speakers to manage the big things in life, but his dream is to one day have a robot of his own.
Zheng Yongping said he could not imagine what better choice than an AI robot when old and frail and in need of help; although it lacks human warmth, this is a trend in an aging society.
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Content: Science and Technology
Growing concern about humans falling in love with artificial intelligence robots
Featured Image Source: Getty Images
15 July 2024, 11: 55 am
Over the past decade, AI-powered virtual assistants, such as Apple ’ s Siri and Amazon ’ s Aleska, have become an integral part of smartphone and social media technologies.
More recently, a new type of human-like chat software powered by artificial intelligence has emerged, interacting with humans through text, sound and images.
Currently, there are more than 100 AI-powered apps that offer romantic and possibly sexual partners with extensive customization options, including physical and personality traits.
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By demonstrating realism, adaptability, and interaction, AI-powered chatbots can evolve gradually during a conversation, and their responses can be adjusted to suit users ’ interests, needs, and communication styles.
Modern AI-powered chatbots have increasingly human-like qualities, increasing the tendency for users to engage and form emotional bonds, to the point of falling in love.
Researchers say loneliness, exacerbated by the limitations of the COVID-19 pandemic, has led more people to use AI as an alternative to romantic friends and partners.
Do we have to worry?
Shockingly, recent preliminary studies showed no difference in enjoyment, sexual arousal, and emotional response for participants who interacted with a human, chatbot, or real human.
One study even showed that individuals feel a stronger emotional attachment to chatbots than to less responsive humans during a conversation.
Research has repeatedly suggested that humans can make real emotional connections with AI, even if they admit it ’ s not a “real ” person.
Although many people seem to derive psychological benefits from using chatbots, the potential harmful consequences of these relationships remain unclear.
The dark side of falling in love with artificial intelligence
Experts say in a report published by the site "Live Science" that romantic chat robots are programmed to provide a unique form of companionship, with constant availability and smooth interactions and avoidance of conflicts and problems, raising concerns about the impact on the expectations of users regarding romantic relationships and human sexuality.
Experts have confirmed that chatbots may work to:
Obstructing the development of social skills
Romantic chat programs may hinder the development of social skills for dealing with real-world relationships, including emotional regulation and self-affirmation through social interactions.
Lack of these elements may hinder users ’ ability to develop genuine, complex, and reciprocal relationships with other humans; human relationships often involve challenges and conflicts that foster personal growth and deep emotional connections.
Promoting social isolation
The customizable nature and constant availability of AI companions can lead to social isolation and emotional dependence.
The researchers suggest that intensive engagement with AI companions may cause individuals to withdraw from their immediate environment and reduce their motivation to build new and meaningful social connections, as users may also rely excessively on these digital entities for emotional support, companionship, or sexual needs.
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Intensive AI engagement can hinder social skills development and have negative consequences for mental and physical health.

Long-term pet ownership, including robotic pets, can delay memory loss, reduce stress, and provide companionship and purpose.

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Content: Having a long-term pet companion may delay memory loss and other kinds of cognitive decline, a new study has found. Pet ownership was especially beneficial for working verbal memory, such as memorization of word lists, according to the preliminary research.

"To our knowledge, our study is the first to consider the effect of duration of pet ownership on cognitive health," first author Jennifer Applebaum, a sociology doctoral candidate and National Institute of Health predoctoral fellow at University of Florida, told CNN in an email.

And it's not just cats and dogs that can boost the brain. People in the study also cared for rabbits, hamsters, birds, fish and reptiles, Applebaum said, although "dogs were most prevalent, followed by cats."

Owning household pets for five years or more produced the most benefit, delaying cognitive decline by 1.2 points over the six-year period of the study compared with the rate of decline in people without pets, said clinical neuroimmunologist Dr. Tiffany Braley, an associate professor of neurology at the University of Michigan, via email.

"These findings provide early evidence to suggest that long-term pet ownership could be protective against cognitive decline," said Braley, senior author of the study to be presented in April at the American Academy of Neurology's 74th Annual Meeting.

Why did having pets for more than five years have the most positive impact? The study, which could only show an association, not a direct cause and effect between pet ownership and cognition, was unable to answer that question.

However, previous studies have pointed to the negative effects of stress on brain health, especially chronic stress, Braley said.

"Prior research has also identified associations between interactions with companion animals and physiological measures of stress reduction, including reductions in cortisol levels and blood pressure, which in the long term could have an impact on cognitive health," she said.

There can also be a multitude of other brain benefits from pet ownership, such as social companionship and a sense of duty and purpose, experts say.

"Having a pet or multiple pets combines many core components of a brain-healthy lifestyle," said Dr. Richard Isaacson, director of the Alzheimer's Prevention Clinic in the Center for Brain Health at Florida Atlantic University's Schmidt College of Medicine.

"Cognitive engagement, socialization, physical activity and having a sense of purpose can separately, or even more so in combination, address key modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease dementia," said Isaacson, who was not involved in the study.

Working memory

The study analyzed cognitive data on more than 1,300 adults who participated in the Health and Retirement Study, a nationally representative study tracking the lives of Americans age 50 and older.

Anyone with cognitive decline at the start of the research was excluded from the analysis. In the final sample, over 53% owned pets. Pet owners tended to be of higher socioeconomic status, which could also be a reason for the benefits: Experts say people with more income are more likely to visit doctors and take care of their health.

Any brain boost associated with owning pets over five years was "more prominent for Black adults, college-educated adults, and men," the study said.

"More research is needed to explain these findings," Applebaum said. Because previous research has been mostly among biased samples that consisted primarily of White women, "we are lacking sufficient information about men (and other genders) AND people of color, especially Black pet owners," she said.

Does this mean you should run right out and get a pet if you're an older adult interested in preserving your brain? Not necessarily, experts say. Studies have also shown that pet owners can be lonely, depressed and have chronic conditions that may make pet ownership a negative.

"We do not recommend pet ownership as a therapeutic intervention," Applebaum said. "However, we do recommend that people who own pets be supported in keeping them via public policy and community partnerships."

Abolishing pet fees on rental housing and providing free or low-cost vet services would go a long way toward helping pet owners keep their pets, "particularly in low-income communities and communities of color," Applebaum said

Other ideas include providing foster or boarding support for people who are unexpectedly unavailable to care for their pets due to a health crisis.

"An unwanted separation from a pet can be devastating for a bonded owner, and marginalized populations are most at-risk of these unwanted outcomes," she said.

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For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

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Title:

Content: Robotic animal dolls may not be the first thought that comes to mind when considering a companion pet, but Diana Wise and Carol Brown believe otherwise. In fact, the two say Joy for All companion pets can make a big difference in providing comfort to aging adults with Alzheimer’s and dementia who are struggling with social isolation.

Wise saw this firsthand in her mother, who had dementia for years and lived in a memory care unit at an assisted living facility. Wise would visit her mother regularly, but when COVID hit, she could no longer do so.

“I was unable to see her for eight months,” said Wise, “And when I finally was able to see her, I saw the decline of how much the isolation affected her … [W]hen I found my mom, well, they said that all she did was sleep – what else was there to do? And so that isolation impacted her a lot. Her memory was just – everything had changed about her.”

Wise’s mother, Helen Espinoza, passed away in November 2020 from COVID complications. In the midst of her grief, Wise found herself wanting to do something in her mother’s memory that would help someone else. After having heard an idea from Brown about robotic companion pets, she soon had the idea to partner with her. As a result, Wise formed the “Share the Love” Helen Espinoza Memorial Fund.

“The first thing that came to mind was these animals to help with memory care units or caregivers, assisted living, with this isolation,” said Wise. “I mean, with COVID it really put a lot of perspective about how hard it is on these residents without having [companionship.] They can’t have little animals and stuff, but why not have this – the best, next best thing? You know, the interaction itself?”

The idea to use robotic pets came when Brown was doing her own research into solutions for the decline in quality of life brought on by isolation in these affected residents. Brown stated that with the Western Arizona Council of Governments (WACOG) Area Agency on Aging, she focuses heavily on three areas that affect seniors the most, and one of them is Alzheimer’s and dementia.

“For several years, we’ve been extremely aware that social isolation is causing a huge decline in quality of life and life expectancy in our seniors,” she said. “And COVID did shine a huge light on it: people started understanding how detrimental it is to be isolated like that. So we were looking for solutions prior to, but with COVID, it really lit a fire underneath to start seeking out possibilities to help resolve some of the issues going on.”

Brown explained that people with Alzheimer’s and dementia can struggle with extreme anxiety and agitation. They often benefit from having something to do with their hands. Their senses of time, space and reality can become skewed. Changes in environment or schedule can be really upsetting. And sometimes people with these diagnoses live alone with no help or companionship.

“On the other side is the caregiver, who – especially during COVID – found themselves 24/7 alone with that loved one, providing all the care because many of them didn’t want the services even coming into their home,” she said. “They were too afraid to let anybody in … So if their loved one isn’t sleeping, neither are they. So now the caregiver’s extremely stressed out, exhausted, overwhelmed, and they need help.”

Enter Joy for All’s lifelike robotic pets. With options between cats and puppies, the companion pets have heartbeats, can purr or lick, meow or bark, move and respond to motion, voice and touch. When needed, they can be muted as well. As robotic pets, they avoid the liabilities and dangers of caring for a living creature while still providing the comfort of an animal.

Brown had been demonstrating two pets in an interview with the Sun when a passerby had stopped to say, “Wow, I thought they were real!” Brown shared that she’s seen people visibly relax with the pets.

“There’s a lot of studies that were done years ago about giving folks with Alzheimer’s a baby doll,” she explained. “Many facilities don’t allow it. They consider it demeaning … But they were missing the point that if you’re not going to do that, then what are you going to do? You need to provide them with something that they can hang on to.

“Because these are so lifelike, it does exactly what the studies, the research, shows: it’s going to bring down the anxiety level. If there’s aggression, it tends to fall back down just as well … [and] you’re giving their caregiver a break.”

Wise and Brown shared that they hope not only to provide these pets to individuals with Alzheimer’s or their caregivers, but also to facilities with assisted living and skilled nursing memory care units where current shortages in staff mean individuals may be doing the work of two or three staff members at a time.

Brown shared that the Joy for All puppy typically costs about $140 while the cat costs $120. With bulk purchasing, she can bring the cost down a bit, but not by much. Additionally, the fund needs to cover rechargeable batteries for the pets.

The foundation will need to raise more funds to acquire more pets, but Wise and Brown reported that they’ve already been able to provide a few pets thanks to a donation made by AARP.

“So we were able to place a couple already at Daybreak Adult Daycare Center,” said Brown. “They are one of the providers that WACOG works with, so we were able to make a donation and bring them a puppy and kitten.

“They’re very popular. [The staff] make sure they handle it in a certain way so that there isn’t fighting. I think last time I talked to Mary, I think what they do is they got animal crates so when it’s time for them to go to bed, they get put in their crate.”

Seeing the difference the pets are making, Wise not only wishes to raise more funds to provide more of them, she also hopes to get the word out in case people may want to purchase the pets for their own family members.

“What I witnessed seeing the other residents that have Alzheimer’s, dementia: they do hold onto things and it gives them comfort,” she said. “My heart just went for this and so I know my mom would be really proud of that.

“… I needed something to come out positive about this, especially about how we’ve heard so much about the isolation with people in senior living homes and stuff, so we needed to have something a little bit more positive and something that we can do to uplift out of this whole thing.”

Wise and Brown also noted that despite the setbacks in kickstarting their fundraising campaign, now is a good time for people to learn about “Share the Love” and the Helen Espinoza Memorial Fund. November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month and National Family Caregivers month.

As older adults continue to face the obstacles of Alzheimer’s and dementia in a pandemic, Wise and Brown hope to further reduce isolation for Yuma County’s elderly one companion pet at a time.

To learn more about the Helen Espinoza Memorial Fund and make a donation, visit https://www.azfoundation.org/Donors/Give-to-a-Memorial-Fund/-Share-the-Love-Helen-Espinoza-Memorial-Fund. To learn more about WACOG and connect with the resources they provide to aging adults, visit https://www.wacog.com/area-agency-on-aging/

Sisko J. Stargazer can be reached at 928-539-6849 or sstargazer@yumasun.com.

Sisko J. Stargazer can be reached at 928-539-6849 or sstargazer@yumasun.com.

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For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

Robotic pets can benefit caregivers by reducing stress and improving their mental and physical health.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

Robotic pets can have benefits, but also potential risks like social isolation and emotional dependence.

Robotic pets can improve mental and physical health, especially for the elderly or lonely, when used to promote human connections.

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What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Over 31,500 robotic pets have been distributed to socially isolated elderly adults, with 70 percent of recipients reporting reduced loneliness.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robotic pets are designed to be lifelike and used therapeutically to improve seniors' health and quality of life.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

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For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robotic pets, costing $100 to $150, are an accessible option for seniors, with some nonprofits donating them to those in need.

Title:

Content: Virginia nonprofit donates hundreds of robotic pets to children from Ukraine

Children in Ukraine who had to leave their homes are getting a special surprise from a Northern Virginia nonprofit.

They look like stuffed animals, but there’s more to them.

“These are quite remarkable. They are lifelike and act like real pets. They’re affordable,” Steve Cone, chief of philanthropy and communications at Virginia-based Capital Caring, said.

The organization started integrating robotic pets into its care and provided them to patients with dementia, veterans and younger children with serious health issues.

They cost $150 and are funded mostly through donations.

Now, 500 of these pets are being sent to children from Ukraine who had to leave their homes.

“We decided this was a wonderful way to provide something unexpected and delightful that would really be heartwarming and something that the child would just be delighted with,” Cone said.

The nonprofit provides hospice care and long-term illness services for people in the D.C. area.

“Reading and hearing about these little children who have lost their homes and their pets, it just seemed like something we should try to do.”

The nonprofit is working with the Polish government to get the robotic pets to Ukrainian refugees.

“They don’t have to worry about feeding it, walking it, cleaning up after it; they just can enjoy the love that it brings them,” Cone said.

Anyone interested in donating to the nonprofit can visit Capital Caring’s donation webpage.

Valerie Bonk

Valerie Bonk started working at WTOP in 2016 and has lived in Howard County, Maryland, her entire life. She's thrilled to be a reporter for WTOP telling stories on air. She works as both a television and radio reporter in the Maryland and D.C. areas.

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Robotic pets are being used to help children with health issues and have been donated to Ukrainian refugees.

The effectiveness of robotic pets is influenced by 7 key factors, including communication, predictability, and physical attachment signs.

Robots that mimic dogs may provide therapeutic benefits and help isolated individuals form friendships by embedding dog-like behavior into their software.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

Scottish researchers believe what will provide benefits to owners of robotic dogs without accompanying responsibilities?

What can Dynamic 1, a robotic dog by Tecno, do?

many features to enhance owner interaction

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

What should a guide dog's role include in addition to guiding a person?

Robotic pets in therapeutic settings can reduce anxiety, aggression, and medication needs in seniors, including veterans with dementia.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

Robotic pets are being used in hospice care to provide comfort and emotional support to patients.

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robots with regional accents are more trustworthy to users who share the accent.

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Content: Skip to content
The Future

Robots who share your accent are more trusted, study shows

People who have a regional accent might prefer robots who speak like them over generic voices.
Key Takeaways
  • Robots often sport a standardized accent because it is believed the accent makes them sound more competent.
  • However, a recent study suggests that when a robot speaks in a user’s dialect, the user finds it more trustworthy and competent.
  • Other factors could also affect a user’s preference, such as physical appearance and whether the voice sounds typically male or female.

As robots become a bigger part of our everyday social lives, designers are increasingly considering how to get humans to trust them. A common expectation is that robots should behave in ways that align with our culture and social norms, and few aspects of these are more visible than the voices, accents, and dialects they use to talk to us.

Imagine a “robot voice” in your head. If it is anything like a fictional robot inspired by decades of sci-fi, it might sound clinical, stilted, and authoritative, with a hard-to-place but generic accent. Today, however, machines are starting to talk more and more like people. How will that affect how we perceive them?

The challenge: So far, studies have been conflicted as to whether people prefer robots to speak to them in standardized accents, or in regional accents and dialects similar to their own.

While robots speaking in standardized accents are widely seen as more intelligent and competent, some researchers argue that they could be perceived as more familiar and comforting if they talk in more regional accents and dialects — possibly making them seem more trustworthy.

The survey: In a new experiment detailed in Frontiers in Robotics and AI, a team of researchers in Germany aimed to get a clearer picture of how people perceive robots based on the dialect they use.

In the study, Katharina Kühne and colleagues at the University of Potsdam recruited 120 native German speakers living in Berlin and the surrounding region of Brandenburg. They then showed them a video of the not-quite-two-feet tall Nao robot speaking either in standard German or in the Berlin dialect. So, “ich bin ein Berliner” becomes “ick been een Berlina”, the latter of which is widely perceived to be more friendly and working-class.

Perception: Afterwards, the researchers asked their participants to judge which robot they perceived as more competent and trustworthy. In general, their results showed that the participants preferred the robot speaking in standard German – but not in every case.

If the participants were more proficient in the Berlin dialect and spoke it more regularly, they perceived the dialect-speaking robot as more trustworthy. In either case, they found that the participants generally judged the robot as being more trustworthy when they also perceived it as more competent and intelligent.

Kühne’s team acknowledged there are many different factors that they didn’t test that could affect users’ preferences, including the robot’s physical appearance, whether its voice is male or female, and the deeper social and political connotations of different dialects. All the same, their study provides valuable insights into how the use of language can influence our interactions and perceptions of robots.

Informing the future: Increasingly, social robots are finding their way into areas of everyday life as wide-ranging as teaching, personal care, and even companionship. As this social landscape changes, the team’s results could ultimately offer important guidance as to how they can be tailored to meet the needs and expectations of users from a diverse range of backgrounds.

This article was originally published by our sister site, Freethink.

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Robots speaking in a user's dialect are perceived as more trustworthy.

Robotic pets like PARO are providing therapeutic benefits similar to real animals thanks to advanced technology.

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7 Weirdest Robots That Science Has Reached “You ’ ll Never Imagine ”
© Photo / pixabay / mariananbuA bee-shaped robot with a fan
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Scientific robotics companies are competing to create sophisticated models that can meet many different needs, especially in medicine and other fields.
The large and massive development in the field of artificial intelligence, chips and complex mechanics supported by advanced technology contributes to increasing the speed of development of robots and the multiplicity of their varieties and sizes, which has produced a series of very strange robots, the most prominent of which are:
1- Metabird Robot
The MetaBird robot is a drone, almost indistinguishable from real birds, and is based on the principle of biomimicry from Bionic Bird.
The principle of biomimicry is the successful and accurate replication of the properties or mechanisms of action of things that already exist in nature.
The bird-shaped aircraft weighs less than 10 grams and has no propellers, making it safe to maneuver. It is also equipped with flexible wings made of carbon fiber and liquid crystal polymers. The body itself is made of durable foam, so it is not affected by water and shocks. It is equipped with a battery to help it fly for 10 minutes and is controlled by a mobile device.
Robot (Bat Bot).
Researchers at the California Institute of Technology and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have recreated key bat flight mechanisms and embedded them into the Batbot.
The robot weighs about 93 grams and flies with wings made of an easily stretchable silicone membrane.
The robot can simply change the shape of the wings, bend and disassemble them, and can fold the shoulders, elbows, wrists and legs.
The computer and sensors are embedded in the Batbot head, and there are five precision motors along the spine.
It provides him with the ability to mimic flying mammals well by controlling him with a special device.
Researchers suggest that thanks to flexible wings, robotic bats are more energy efficient than other flying robots.
Lightweight and agile, these robots are useful as traditional quadcopters can collide with objects or people causing damage or injury, such as on construction sites.
3. Salamander Robot "BlueRobot"
The "Pleurobot" robot, created by researchers at the Federal Polytechnic School of Lausanne (EPFL), can walk on the ground, swim underwater and navigate between the two with similar success to the amphibian salamander.
To develop the robot, scientists used salamander X-rays and studied how its skeleton worked during movement.
The low center of gravity, which allows the robot to move on rough terrain without losing balance, also provides the ability to swim and can make it a useful tool for search and rescue operations.
The researchers also plan to study the interaction between the spinal cord, the body and the environment.
According to the project leader, Olek Eisbert, understanding the basis of this interaction will help develop neuroprosthetic therapies and devices for those with hemiplegia and amputation.
4. The water snake robot "Elum"
The snake-like body allows the robot to move effectively not only on the ground, but also in the water.
The Norwegian robotics company has borrowed the nickname "Eelume" to design an autonomous autonomous robot.
His slim, flexible body gave him the ability to work in confined spaces where conventional underwater vehicles could not get in.
Eelume is suitable for inspections and light repairs of underwater structures such as offshore wind farms, fish farms, oil and gas installations and pipelines.
The device consists of modules that can be interconnected in different groups depending on the task.
The robot is shipped from the docking station on the seabed so that it can stay underwater continuously and not depend on weather conditions.
The cockroach robot "CRAM"
Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley, have developed a prototype of a roach-like CRAM robot.
The design of the robot was inspired by the unique way insects move and are immune to damage.
The robot has an exoskeleton made up of strong panels and a soft cover that allows it to change shape and adapt to very narrow gaps.
Such a robot could help search for and rescue people under rubble formed as a result of hurricanes, earthquakes and explosions.
6. Pet Robots
These robots work on the principle of interactive communication between humans and robots with the aim of improving the quality of life of the elderly, such as the robot "AIBO" from Sony.
An example of this is also the robot dog produced by the company "Tombot".
This robot is almost like a real Labrador puppy and, according to the developers, should solve the problem of elderly people who need a friend, but are unable to care for a living dog.
The company ’ s founder was inspired by his mother, who suffered from Alzheimer ’ s disease and was no longer able to care for her dog, with whom she was so attached.
The dog became aggressive towards its mother, exacerbating the woman's depression and loneliness.
Accompanying robots could solve loneliness and social isolation in older adults and people with cognitive disabilities, as part of a study funded by the American insurance company.
7- The therapeutic robot "PARO"
PARO is one of the most important humanoid therapeutic robots developed by Dr. Takanori Shibata, of Japan ’ s National Institute of Industrial Science and Advanced Technology.
The robot is similar to a children's toy, except that it has sound, light, temperature, position, sensors and touch sensors.
PARO can move its tail and fins, open its eyes when caressed, and imitate the sounds of a real seal.
It reacts to words that its owner frequently uses and can express emotions such as surprise, happiness and anger.
Communication with the robot "PARO" has the same effect as the treatment provided by real animals.
Patients showed improvement in psychological and physiological factors, as well as social activity.
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Robotic pets provide companionship, emotional support, and therapeutic benefits, with effectiveness influenced by factors like communication, predictability, and physical attachment signs.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

How is Oppo marketing its Robotic dog Qric?

What can Dynamic 1, a robotic dog by Tecno, do?

many features to enhance owner interaction

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robotic pets can help cure loneliness and provide mental support, especially for the elderly, as a low-maintenance alternative to real pets.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Why would the elderly opt for a robotic pet as a friend?

Robotic pets reduce loneliness by 70 percent and pain by 75 percent, leading to various physical and mental health benefits.

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robotic pets can help alleviate social isolation, which increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and cognitive decline in older adults.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robotic pets can reduce loneliness, anxiety, and depression in seniors, improving their mood and quality of life.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robotic pets can provide a sense of purpose for seniors, remind them of past pets, and improve their well-being, especially for those with dementia.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robots can remind users to hydrate, connect them with loved ones through video calls, and potentially order medicines.

Title:

Content: High-tech companions aim to help fight loneliness epidemic among South Florida seniors

MIAMI - The state of Florida and Broward County are spending thousands of dollars every month on artificial intelligence robots for seniors to help fight the loneliness epidemic.

One senior owns a robotic cat named "fluffy."

"The best part is we don't have to spend any money on food and no vets," says Cathy.

This interactive robot rolls over, blinks and purrs whenever it wants.

Cathy saw a friend using one to overcome the loss of a pet and loneliness and figured it would be perfect for her husband.

"He had sciatic pain. Maybe that will help you with your pain in some way. Even though he's on medicine and therapy because real animals when you pet them it helps with pain management."

Higher tech was delivered to some Broward seniors.

"...Thanks for letting me out of that box."

The company that makes them aims artificial intelligence at the loneliness epidemic.

"During the week when everyone is working, there's times when I'm lonely."

"When I go deliver and install for seniors, they're like I just want somebody to say good morning," says Antonella.

"Many of them don't have family or friends nearby. Maybe their loved ones have passed on or some of their friends have passed on," said Charlotte Mather-Taylor, who serves as the CEO of the Area Agency on Aging of Broward County.

According to US Health and Human Services, half of all American adults are lonely.

It's threatening health, increasing risks of heart disease, dementia, stroke, anxiety and depression.

According to HHS, lack of connection can increase the risk of premature death at levels comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Last May, the US Surgeon General dropped a first-ever advisory on loneliness and isolation.

"By strengthening our relationships, we can improve our heart and brain health, reduce our risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, boost our immune systems and lower our risk of depression," said Vivek Murthy, US Surgeon General.

In Broward County, Mather-Taylor is spending state and federal dollars on artificial intelligence for people over 60.

"There's so much I want to ask you..."

These robots named after the Norse goddess of old age cost 89 dollars a month, but the aging agency is giving them away for free.

Rosemary Mullarkey is one of the first 300 to have one.

"I'm a little excited and a little apprehensive..."

Intuitive Robotics CEO Dor Skular created her specifically for older adults to help manage their health, and wellness and connect to loved ones.

"There's an algorithm that tries to get a reward and it gets a reward when the user completes things that are part of healthy aging. For example, if they hydrate," said Skular.

Reviews are so strong that cities like Pembroke Pines and Lauderhill are pushing to get more robots for seniors in their communities.

"People reported back that she was bringing them joy. I mean, she's telling some jokes. She's responding to them. They wake up in the morning, she asks them how they are. She'll remind them to drink their glass of water. So, she's caring about them for them," said Mather-Taylor.

Two years later, seniors like Rose are getting free, AI robots that make and take video calls.

With all of the concerns about AI, should seniors and their families be worried?

"We would not be offering it unless we felt comfortable that they did have those safety guards in place," said Mather-Taylor.

"Is this device unhackable? There's no such thing as an unhackable device. It's always a war between defender and attacker," said Skular.

"Random people, fraudsters etcetera, can never call into the robot because they need to be added by the older adult as a contact for them to be able to open up the calling features."

What is the next step with the robots?

They only speak English. South Florida has plenty of seniors who do not. Developers are working on a Spanish robot.

In the future, developers also see it being able to order medicines for seniors. Much sooner though, developers expect to further integrate the robots with senior health care providers. They are working on ways of opening new avenues to communicate health info about seniors to loved ones, provided the senior signs off on it.

How long can this program last?

State, federal funds will last two years. After that, the agency has to find other grants to cover the $89 a month per person fee.

Currently, data from robots and users is being collected to quantify success. The company insists it will not sell any of the information it gathers.

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How have robotic cats been assiting patients in hospitals?

How is Oppo marketing its Robotic dog Qric?

fully-fledged companion
has intelligent capabilities

What can Dynamic 1, a robotic dog by Tecno, do?

many features to enhance owner interaction

The use of robotic pets carries potential risks, including social isolation and emotional dependence.

Excessive reliance on robotic pets can hinder social skills, emotional regulation, and self-affirmation, causing individuals to withdraw from their environment.

Long-term pet ownership, which can be simulated by robotic pets, can delay memory loss, reduce stress, and provide companionship and purpose.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

Robotic pets can comfort aging adults with Alzheimer's and dementia, reducing anxiety and agitation while benefiting their mental and physical health.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

Robotic pets cost between $100 and $140, with bulk purchases offering a slight discount.

Robotic pets can offer physical and mental health benefits, especially for the elderly or lonely, but their potential risks must be considered.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

China launched an AI regulatory framework in 2019 to protect consumer data, applicable to robotic pets.

Title:

Content: Ask the public for advice on how to protect individual governments when using AI
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The Personal Data Protection Committee will conduct a public consultation on how the industry can protect users ’ personal data when using AI to develop guidelines to provide industry practitioners with clearer information for use in training or developing AI models.
Addressing a seminar on personal data protection on Tuesday (18 July), the Minister of Communications and Information and Second Minister of the Interior, Yeung Li-ming, said that while promoting high-quality artificial intelligence technology to develop the digital economy, China must also ensure that consumers' personal data are properly protected.
She noted that authorities need to do more to help businesses in the region access and collate high-quality data to benefit from a wide range of AI innovations, while ensuring that consumer data is properly protected.
“Without proper data protection, people will feel insecure enough to participate fully in digital development and will not support the wider use of data to drive AI and other innovative projects. ”
“As long as businesses clearly know what data they can use, including personal data, it can be easier to build high-quality data, ” she said.
When the industry has a clear understanding of how to apply personal data to AI in a secure and trusted way, consumers will also benefit. ”
Six weeks of public consultation to develop a set of reference principles
The Public Consultation of the Personal Data Protection Committee will last for six weeks to develop a set of reference principles for the training and development of artificial intelligence systems to provide clearer guidance to operators on the use of personal data and to guide them to be transparent in the use of personal data and explain them before requesting personal data from consumers.
The consultation started today and is expected to end at the end of August.
On other issues of artificial intelligence generated content, such as being used to spread false information or fraud and other illegal activities, China has stepped up supervision, and in 2019 and 2022, respectively, launched the artificial intelligence regulatory model framework, and the world's first artificial intelligence governance test framework and toolbox AI Verify.
Google Asia Pacific partners with regulators for the first time to support industry adoption and testing of privacy-enhancing technologies
On the other hand, Yang Liming also announced that the Information and Communications Media Development Bureau and Google jointly launched the "Privacy Enhancement Technology x Privacy Sandbox" (PET x Privacy Sandbox).
Privacy Enhancement Technologies (PET) refers to the technology that protects the privacy of sensitive data, allowing the process of collecting, storing and managing data to ensure data privacy while allowing operators to extract valuable information from it.
This is the first time Google has worked with regulators in the Asia-Pacific region to support testing and adoption of PET in the industry.
She said the partnership would also benefit businesses and consumers.
Local and regional companies will be able to pilot PET in a safe environment, and consumers will get more relevant content without having to worry about personal data being leaked.
Yang Liming said that the Information and Communications Bureau has been encouraging the industry to adopt PET.
At last year ’ s Personal Data Protection Symposium, she announced the launch of the Media Bureau ’ s regulatory sandbox.
Through this pilot project, participating enterprises can receive different support in the development of PET solutions.
She also stressed that this partnership with Google is not the first regulatory sandbox between the MCA and tech companies, and that many companies are already involved in the project.
“The Department of Education is actively seeking more cooperation in this area.
We are committed to building a strong technology ecosystem through experimentation and testing, facilitating cross-border data flows and enabling ASEAN to benefit from AI more effectively. ”
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The Chinese government launched AI Verify in 2022, a framework and toolbox to support AI development, including robotic pets.

Regulatory frameworks for robotic pets aim to ensure consumer data protection, safety, and efficacy.

Google partners with regulators to support privacy-enhancing technologies for secure robotic pets.

Robotic pets need clear legal principles and regulations for safety and efficacy, according to Ildar Begishev.

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Derzhavin Prize Laureate Ildar Begishev: “Drones have no rights ”
Photo: © Jamil Salimgareev / Tatar-inform
The winner of the Republican award named after G. R. Derzhavin this year was Doctor of Law, Chief Researcher of the Research Institute of Digital Technologies and Law, Professor of the Kazan Innovative University named after V. G. Timiryasov Ildar Begishev.
About his professional activities, the lawyer told the correspondent of “Tatar-inform ”.
In the legal community Derzhavinskaya award is one of the most noticeable, said Begishev.
The award has existed since 2000, but at first it was awarded only for literary achievements.
Only in 2017, lawyers began to appear in the list of laureates.
This year, the award was awarded to the monograph “Criminal law regulation in robotics ” written by the interlocutor of the agency.
Begishev is engaged in research in the field of legal regulation of digital technologies all his life.
This topic was devoted to his candidate (“The concept and types of crimes in the field of digital information circulation ”) and doctoral (“ Criminal law protection of public relations related to robotics ”) dissertations.
This area for lawyers of the republic and the whole country is not yet explored territory.
Being the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Digital Technologies and Law, as well as the chairman of the program committee of the largest international scientific and practical conference in the CIS "Digital Technologies and Law", Begishev, in her own words, keeps her finger on the pulse of modern law in the field of digital technologies.
“For digital technologies, the future: artificial intelligence, robotics, blockchain, cryptocurrency, metaverse – all this requires assessment by lawyers.
If these phenomena exist without regulation, there will be big problems, ” Begishev is convinced.
One of the most recent precedents, the lawyer calls the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, which in recent years have become one of the most significant threats not only to the soldiers of the Russian army, but also to the civilian population of front-line cities.
This year, targets for drone strikes were also objects on the territory of Tatarstan.
“Legal regulation for drones has not yet been established.
He's not here.
In general, there should be an international convention on the regulation of FPV drones (First-Person View - "first-person view", these drones are controlled directly from the point of view of the pilot - approx.
T-i) and deadly weapons systems.
There are no such conventions, ” Begishev stressed.
Now the lawyer is working on the development of a draft convention with the working title “On the creation and use of highly intelligent robotic lethal weapons ”.
However, the problem of the lack of legal regulation of high technologies is relevant not only in the military sphere.
Unmanned taxis, unmanned aircraft and helicopters also require regulation, the lawyer explained.
If we assume that the streets of cities will be patrolled by armed robot-police, they can become a target for a hacker.
“Programmers, lawyers, technicians need to think about it.
Some create robotic devices, others are trying to regulate the relations that arise because of them, ” said Ildar Begishev.
The researcher devoted more than 270 works and many monographs to this topic.
He also became the first Russian developer of the law on robots and participated in the creation of a code of ethics in the field of the use of bioprinting technologies (for example, in the use of synthetic organs for transplantation).
The foundations of the legal regulation of the activities of robots were laid by the American science fiction writer Isaac Asimov in the story “Round Dance ” in 1942.
However, his principles, the famous three laws of robotics (and another — “zero ”), Begishev called conceptual, philosophical.
“Everything is built on this.
But these are philosophical principles, and we are talking about legal principles.
We must lay down clear models — norms, regulations, laws — by which the state will act, ” Begishev explained.
The lawyer also drew attention to the fact that the leadership of the country and the republic give high priority to the digital economy.
Today, there is a boom in robotics: big data, metaverse, digitalization of health systems, cadastral accounting, education, agriculture.
“Digital technologies are everywhere, so we need to identify existing problems and create positive beginnings.
Technology must work for the benefit of the state and the individual.
Fortunately, we don ’ t have technologies at home and abroad that work against [this].
Everything is developing according to the key agenda: first they implement ethical principles, and then, if people like, they are already engaged in the regulation of technologies, ” concluded Ildar Begishev.
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