Robotic pets can reduce loneliness by 70% and pain by 75% in elderly recipients.

Pets can improve seniors' health, decrease anxiety and loneliness, and provide a sense of purpose.

Robotic pets like ElliQ use AI to simulate emotional understanding and adapt to user behavior.

They can comfort aging adults with Alzheimer's and dementia, reducing anxiety and providing a sense of purpose.

Robotic pets, costing $100 to $140, may help reduce anxiety in people with Alzheimer's.

There are concerns that robotic pets may lead to social isolation and blur the lines between human and machine relationships.

Public attitudes towards robotic pets are varied, with some seeing them as a convenient alternative and others raising ethical concerns.

AI care technology, such as robotic pets, may fill healthcare manpower gaps, especially in countries with aging populations.

Robotic pets can positively impact behavior in therapeutic settings by providing comfort and purpose.

They can be used therapeutically to improve cardiovascular health and reduce anxiety, loneliness, and depression in seniors with dementia.

Robotic pets integrated with smart home devices and healthcare systems can provide comprehensive care for the elderly, addressing isolation, loneliness, and health monitoring.

The use of robotic pets raises ethical questions about replacing real animals and its impact on human relationships and emotional well-being.

Many people are forming emotional bonds with AI-powered chatbots and robotic pets for companionship and support.

Robotic pets with artificial intelligence are being developed to recognize and respond to user emotions using cameras and facial recognition.

Machine learning enables robots to adapt behaviors by processing and learning from vast amounts of data and past interactions.

Robotic pets can reduce loneliness by 70% and pain by 75% in elderly recipients.

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

Pets can improve seniors' health, decrease anxiety and loneliness, and provide 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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What problems can companion robots solve for the elderly or those with cognitive difficulties, according to one study?

Robotic pets like ElliQ use AI to simulate emotional understanding and adapt to user behavior.

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Elderly alone robot ElliQ likes to chat, exercise, remind to take medicine
The Associated Press reported that Joyce Loaiza, a retired office worker in Florida, lives alone, but every time she returns to her apartment in the silver-haired community, a friendly female voice chats with her to 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.
At her home 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.
The women were among the first to try out ElliQ, the robot that invented the company Intuition Robotics and senior welfare officials say is the only device that uses artificial intelligence specifically designed to alleviate loneliness and alienation among many older Americans.
The 81-year-old said the robot was fun and could really talk to it; she nicknamed ElliQ “gummy ” and it would voice opinions, such as“ If I had a hand, I would go out, but I wouldn ’ t stand an umbrella. ”
The device looks like a small table lamp, and the eyes and mouthless head can glow and rotate.
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 the user ’ s relatives, friends, or doctor in an emergency.
Intuition Robotics says none of these conversations will be heard, and the data is kept on each user ’ s device.
CEO Dor Skuler said the robot can adapt to each elderly person ’ s personality, interests, and fill in the gap in emotional support and companionship; this not only highlights the wide range of uses of ElliQ, it relates to friendship, companionship and empathy, “which is an innovation anywhere. ”
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They can comfort aging adults with Alzheimer's and dementia, reducing anxiety and providing a sense of purpose.

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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, costing $100 to $140, may help reduce anxiety in people with Alzheimer's.

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

There are concerns that robotic pets may lead to social isolation and blur the lines between human and machine relationships.

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How AI Companions Are Redefining Human Relationships In The Digital Age

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In an era where technology is increasingly intertwined with every aspect of our lives, Artificial Intelligence (AI) has begun to fill roles that were traditionally reserved for humans, including those of friends, confidants, and even romantic partners. This burgeoning relationship between humans and AI raises profound questions about the nature of companionship, the human need for connection, and the potential consequences of substituting human interaction with digital entities.

The Emergence of AI Companions

The concept of AI companionship is not new, but its realization in practical applications is a relatively recent development. These AI companions are designed to provide emotional support, companionship, and in some cases, even mimic romantic or intimate human relationships. Replika is one of the most well-known examples. It is an AI chatbot designed to provide emotional support. Users interact with Replika through text conversations, and the AI learns over time to provide more personalized responses, simulating a genuine emotional connection.

Another example is Gatebox. They have taken the concept a step further by creating a holographic AI companion. Aimed at people who live alone, Gatebox’s AI avatar can send messages throughout the day, welcome users home, and even control smart home appliances, creating a sense of presence and companionship.

Next, there is Harmony by RealDoll. A more controversial use, Harmony combines AI with a lifelike humanoid robot to offer a romantic and physical companion. Harmony can hold conversations, remember user preferences, and express various personality traits.

The Psychology Behind AI Relationships

Why are people turning to AI for companionship? The reasons are as varied as the individuals themselves, but several key factors contribute to this phenomenon. First, we are experiencing a rapidly growing loneliness epidemic. In a world where social isolation and loneliness are increasingly recognized as major health risks, AI companions offer a semblance of connection for those who feel disconnected from human relationships. This is particularly poignant in countries like Japan, where societal changes have led to a rise in solitary lifestyles. Second, AI relationships provide a level of convenience and control that is not always possible in human interactions. These digital companions are available 24x7, don’t have their own emotional baggage, and can be switched off at the user’s convenience. Third, advances in AI technology have enabled these digital entities to appear more human-like in their interactions. From remembering past conversations to displaying empathy, AI companions can simulate many aspects of human interaction, making them more appealing as social partners.

The Impact on Human Relationships

The rise of AI companionship is not without its implications for society and how we perceive human relationships. For some, AI companions can serve as a bridge to better emotional health. These AI systems provide a non-judgmental space for people to express themselves, which can be particularly valuable for those with social anxiety or other mental health challenges. Moreover, AI companions serve as a stepping stone, helping individuals develop social skills and confidence that can be transferred to human relationships. However, there are concerns about the long-term impact of relying on AI for companionship. One major concern is that these relationships could lead to further social isolation, as individuals might prefer the uncomplicated nature of AI companions over the more challenging dynamics of human relationships. This could potentially exacerbate the loneliness epidemic rather than alleviate it. Then, there are also ethical considerations surrounding the development and use of AI in such intimate roles. The attachment to AI entities that don't possess genuine emotions or consciousness raises questions about the nature of empathy, affection, and what it means to be human.

Implications for Traditional Dating and Marriage

As AI companions become more prevalent and sophisticated, their impact on traditional dating and marriage is inevitable. There is a very real possibility that AI may supplement or even replace human relationships. For some people, AI companions are the outlet for support and companionship that are traditionally forged through human interaction. Moreover, we are already seeing a trend in which younger generations leverage Ai as a practice ground for social interactions, potentially enriching users' capacity to engage in human relationships. However, there is a possibility that some individuals might prefer AI companions to traditional human partners. The predictability, lack of judgment, and customizable nature of AI entities can make them more appealing, especially for those who have had negative experiences with human relationships. As a result, there is a changing perception of what companionship means. Thus, the rise of AI companions challenges our traditional notions of companionship, love, and emotional connection. It raises questions about what it means to love and be loved, and whether these concepts are exclusively human.

Navigating a New Era of Companionship

As AI companions become more prevalent in society, it's crucial to navigate this new era responsibly. That’s why it's important to find a balance between utilizing AI for emotional support and maintaining human connections. Encouraging and facilitating human social interactions alongside the use of AI companions can help mitigate the risk of social isolation. Developers of AI companions have a responsibility to consider the ethical implications of their creations. This includes being transparent about the limitations of AI companionship and avoiding designs that could exploit vulnerable individuals. Moreover, ongoing research is needed to understand the long-term effects of human-AI relationships fully. This research should inform policies and guidelines for the development and use of AI companions. Moreover, open dialogue about the benefits and risks of these relationships is essential to navigating the ethical landscape.

The advent of AI as a substitute for human relationships, including love and friendship, marks a significant shift in our social landscape. While AI companions can offer support and connection to those in need, they also bring with them a host of ethical, psychological, and social implications. As we venture further into this uncharted territory, a cautious and thoughtful approach is vital. The future of human-AI relationships will depend on our ability to balance technological advancements with a deep understanding of human needs and values. In this new era of companionship, we must tread carefully, ensuring that our pursuit of innovation does not lead us away from the essence of what makes us inherently human: our capacity for genuine connection and empathy.

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Public attitudes towards robotic pets are varied, with some seeing them as a convenient alternative and others raising ethical concerns.

AI care technology, such as robotic pets, may fill healthcare manpower gaps, especially in countries with aging populations.

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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.
AI AI Aged Care Home
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How have robotic cats been assiting patients in hospitals?

Relieving staff to focus on medical duties

Robotic pets can positively impact behavior in therapeutic settings by providing comfort and purpose.

Title:

Content: Breaking News
More () »

Falls Church-based organization donating robotic pets to Ukrainian refugees in Poland

Capital Caring Health is working with the Polish government to bring emotional support to children who lost pets amid the crisis in Ukraine.

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — A Virginia nonprofit is partnering with the Polish government to help Ukrainian children who fled their homes.

Capital Caring Health, which is headquartered in Falls Church, will provide robotic cats and dogs as companion pets to refugee children who've had to leave their own pets behind because of the war.

The organization provides hospice, palliative and elder care services to around 120,000 patients in Maryland, Virginia and D.C.

CCH said in a statement that the effort has been approved by Polish officials and the robotics pets will be flown to Poland for distribution.

The statement says that clinical studies indicate that robotic pets can be a source of comfort for children between the ages of 3 to 10.

Credit: Capital Caring Health
Steve Cone, chief of philanthropy for Capital Caring Health, holds two robotic pets.

RELATED: Locals rent Airbnbs for people fleeing Ukraine as company pledges free housing for refugees

Tom Koutsoumpas, CEO of CCH, said in a statement that the organization provides robotic pets to veterans with dementia in the DMV area, which has brought about "remarkable changes in behavior."

"Among the benefits are reduction in agitation, prevention of depression, and often a reduction in medications being administered,” Koutsoumpas said.

The community can support CCH's efforts to support robotic pets for Ukrainian children effort by making a donation online. (Select the "Patient Pet Services and Robotic Companion Pets" option in the specific program dropdown menu.)

A $300 donation provides one robotic pet for both a child refugee and a veteran with dementia.

"The robotic pets are quite remarkable and interactively react to human touch, movement, and voice—like real pets," Steve Cone, chief of philanthropy for CCH said in a statement. "As we like to say no need to feed or walk or clean up after them—just enjoy their LOVE."

WATCH NEXT: 'They come to it with a curious mind' | Northern Virginia classroom examines current events in Ukraine with students

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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?

They can be used therapeutically to improve cardiovascular health and reduce anxiety, loneliness, and depression in seniors 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?

Robotic pets integrated with smart home devices and healthcare systems can provide comprehensive care for the elderly, addressing isolation, loneliness, and health monitoring.

Title:

Content: Health · Life
Innovative ways to make old age more caring
This reporter Ye Zi
May 16, 2023 08: 11 Source: People 's Daily Overseas Edition
On May 9, elderly people were eating in a dining room in an embedded nursing home in Nanlian Community, Sanjiadian Street, Qingyunpu District, Nanchang City, Jiangxi Province.
Photo by Xinhua News Agency reporter Peng Zhaozhi
On May 9, the elderly practiced calligraphy at the “Elderly Care Station ” in Gezhuang Village, Pinggu District, Beijing.
Photo by Xinhua reporter Ren Chao
"Do volunteer time when you are young, exchange for pension services when you are old", the new model of public welfare and mutual assistance is implemented in many places; there are leisure spaces in the home, and embedded community pension institutions play a big role; through "intelligent housekeeper" "," one-click help ", access to telemedicine with intelligent system, the construction of intelligent pension system benefits thousands of families …
The 14th Five-Year Plan for the Development of the National Aging Cause and the Pension Service System clearly focuses on accelerating the improvement of the social security, pension services and health support system, integrating the concept of active aging and healthy aging into the whole process of economic and social development, and constantly making new progress in providing support for the elderly, medical care, doing something for the elderly, learning for the elderly and enjoying the elderly.
In recent years, we have increased institutional innovation, policy supply, and financial investment to actively do a good job in old-age services and help build an age-friendly society.
“The Time Bank. ”
Create a new model of mutual assistance
Open the "My Nanjing" APP on your mobile phone, Moran, who lives in Dongmen New Village, Jiangpu Street, Pukou District, Nanjing City, Jiangsu Province, is preparing to "take orders" on the "Time Bank" platform.
Moran, 69, is healthy and enthusiastic about public welfare.
On this day, she took a single order, will provide a door-to-door haircut service for an elderly person living alone in the same community.
"Since becoming a Time Bank volunteer, I have often used my leisure time to help elderly people in nearby communities, such as doing housework, shopping, blood pressure testing, haircutting, etc.," Moran said volunteering not only brought her closer to the neighborhood, but also enriched her later life.
Moran called the "time bank", is a new model of mutual pension.
It encourages volunteers to provide old-age services for the elderly, record the storage service time according to certain rules, and "punch" online before and after each volunteer service, and automatically "deposit" the corresponding time in the background.
When volunteers need it, they can withdraw the previous “deposit ” time and exchange it for services.
According to Shi Xiulian, director of the time bank management center of Nanjing elderly care service, the time bank is an effective supplement to home and community old-age care, and is an innovative and exploratory mode of mutual assistance in old-age care.
The service items were first served as meal assistance, bath assistance, cleaning assistance, emergency assistance and medical "five help" services, and gradually expanded to spiritual and cultural life in the past two years, with more than 20 cultural and recreational activities, smart phone counseling, etc., to effectively meet the needs of elderly care services at multiple levels.
"I am a volunteer at the Time Bank, and I can also enjoy this service.
For example, today, the weather is hot, I can not ride a bike, meet the need for drugs at home, I will post on the mobile phone, let volunteers help me buy drugs, or it is very good. "Moran said, she is not too old, it is" old "time, to" take orders ".
On her cell phone, the time bank clearly records the information of each volunteer service.
So far, Moran has accumulated more than 300 hours of "deposit".
The "time bank" model of mutual assistance for old-age pension encourages "low-age saving time and high-age access to services."
Like Moran, many of the younger generation have become "time bank" volunteers.
The daily system gives volunteers a "order" near to them, and they "take orders" according to their actual situation.
Such as going out to buy food, chatting with the elderly, cleaning these services, the difficulty is not high, but the volunteers can harvest a great sense of accomplishment.
When necessary, you can become a service provider.
On the surface, the “time bank ” stores“ time coins ”, and in fact stores the love and goodwill of each other ’ s neighbors.
According to Zhou Xinhua, director of the elderly service department of Nanjing Municipal Civil Affairs Bureau, there are 1,703,000 elderly people in Nanjing, with a high degree of aging. In 2019, Nanjing launched the construction of a city-level pension service "time bank" on a pilot basis, and encouraged and guided young people to join the elderly service team.
At present, Nanjing Time Bank has registered 46,000 volunteers, served 80,000 people, and completed 683,000 service orders.
In addition to the younger elderly, more and more young people have joined the "time bank" volunteer team, becoming the backbone of the volunteer group.
Xie Pingping, a professional school in Pukou, Nanjing, usually uses his spare time to "take orders" and teach the elderly to use smart phones and talk to the elderly.
It is understood that the service time accumulated by volunteers in the "time bank" can also be transferred to the accounts of relatives, such as spouses, parents, grandparents, and children over the age of 60. "I think this model is very good, not only can play the special skills of our young people to help the elderly, but also accumulate valuable social practice experience.
In the future, I can also save these services' time 'for my grandparents, "Xie Ping said.
Reporters combed and found that not only in Nanjing, Beijing, Qingdao, Chengdu and other places have carried out and explored the "time bank", the public welfare mutual assistance pension model, the savings and incentive mechanism into the pension service, the use of the Internet, big data, blockchain and other technologies, the old and the old together, out of a new path.
Experts believe that this is not only the promotion of old-age services and the cause of old-age care itself, but also an innovation in social governance.
Resources are sinking
"Home" can enjoy the old age.
Hearing the sound of the opera, people knew that the senior Peking Opera class was again in class.
In Zhenhai District, Ningbo City, Zhejiang Province, the Beijing Opera Class starts on Tuesdays at 8: 45 a.m.
Although the students here are not small in age, their spirit and enthusiasm for learning are not inferior to the young people.
"Peking Opera is the national quintessence of China, and we should inherit and carry it forward," said Yang Huachun, deputy director of the Peking Opera class.
Now, she spends most of her time in the Peking Opera class, shouting, rehearsing and preparing various performances with the students. "It is good to be able to go to the senior school, sing Peking Opera and make friends," Yang said.
Such a grounded, popular "doorstep" senior school is a vivid case of the sinking of elderly service resources.
As the first inclusive special old-age service institution in Ningbo City, since its opening in 2017, New Sanbao Service has provided old-age services such as cultural entertainment, education and training, physical monitoring, community activities, and day care for the elderly in the region.
After the beginning of spring this year, the elderly classroom ushered in a new batch of "silver-haired students", smart phone use, musical instrument playing, calligraphy and painting, sports fitness and other courses, which greatly enriched the spiritual life of the elderly.
“The new concepts of ‘ metaverse ’ and ‘ blockchain ’ do not have to be very well understood, but we must generally know that there is such a thing, otherwise it will be outdated … ” Thanks to the smart phone teaching class in the senior school, Yang Huachun mastered the use of smart phones, and also learned a lot of cutting-edge concepts through mobile phone information.
"In the past, it was difficult to find a university for the elderly, and many old people longed for knowledge, but could not name it, or had to go to a distant place to attend classes."
Now, with the street-level senior school, it is more convenient for the elderly to attend classes, and they are willing to go out of the house and integrate into the big family of the new Three Treasures Service Society. Guo Xufeng, secretary of the Party branch of the New Three Treasures Service Society, said that once the elderly have interests, their lives will be more full and happy.
The new three treasure service center, located in the Zhenhai District of Ningbo City, Zhaobaoshan Street, has entered a deep aging, household registration of about 60,000 people, more than 15,000 elderly people over 60 years of age, of which more than 5,000 people over 80 years of age.
In order to allow the elderly to enjoy high-quality pension services at the "door", in recent years, Zhaobaoshan Street accelerated the promotion of high-quality resources sinking community, and gradually established a community pension service system with regional home pension service centers as the leading and community home pension service centers as outlets, extending the service network to every corner of the jurisdiction.
In the general Puqiao community, Ginkgo District Lou Juqing and his wife are over 80 years old, because their legs are inconvenient, they joined the new three treasure service "love wheel canteen" ordering team.
At each meal point, the staff will send the food to each home ordering elderly people. "Previously it was a phone appointment, now it is more convenient, as long as the mobile phone WeChat Mini Program is selected, it is waiting to deliver the food to the door." Lou Juqing said.
In the Bailong community, the former carport and warehouse, incarnated with a sense of science and technology and the atmosphere of life of the doorstep home elderly care center, the construction area of 600 square meters, can serve the whole community 3,000 elderly.
Take classes, play chess, read, party or bring your children and grandchildren together for leisure and entertainment... the elderly in the community have a high-quality activity space.
The reporter learned that similar to Ningbo, many places across the country have built integrated community pension institutions such as old service centers, day care centers for the elderly, "pension post stations" and elderly meals, activity rooms, etc., through professional aging design and transformation, innovative community pension scenes, so that the elderly can enjoy their old age nearby.
For example, in Shanghai, the Pudong New Area pioneered a "pension convenience store", where elderly people can find a pension facility after walking for about 10 minutes.
In Tianjin, the local government is committed to creating a "three-sided" ("home", "side", "bedside") and "four inseparable" (not away from home, not away from relatives, not away from familiar with the environment, not away from friends) old-age care service system, so that the elderly can be "within reach".
At present, Zhaobaoshan Street has a regional home care service center, nine AAA community home care service centers, and one AA community home care center, which has achieved full coverage of home care service centers.
The elderly can enjoy fast and convenient services in the community according to their place of residence, "said the person in charge of Zhaobaoshan Street, introducing social forces, promoting the integration of medical care, and building a" digital central kitchen "for elderly meals.
Technology Enabling
Retirement services are getting smarter.
The round head is used as a display screen, and the small figure is very cute. This is a "robot housekeeper" newly equipped for elderly residents in Yanyuan Street, Haidian District, Beijing.
Don't look at just a robot, emergency rescue, domestic service, leisure and entertainment, it can do.
"In the future, there is no need to look for the Internet, directly a little robot, the community to help solve." Yanyuan community Zhang Yufang is the first user of "robot housekeeper", she found that the intelligent robot has a "one-click help" button, as long as you click, you can dial the community dispatch command center phone, and then seek a variety of services.
Behind the "robot butler" is the Yanyuan Street Smart Elderly Care Service Center that has been put into operation.
Jiang Xiaogang, secretary of the street party work committee, said that relying on the Internet and big data, Yanyuan Street has built an intelligent and informationized intelligent service platform that can cover the surrounding communities of Peking University.
The smart pension service center includes a dispatching command center, a smart pension and community service management system and the first 700 sets of home intelligent service terminals.
In addition to the one-click call function, the intelligent service robot will also be equipped with more intelligent equipment close to the needs of the elderly at home, such as smart bed belt, anti-fall intelligent alarm radar, and automatic alarm device for elderly health indicators.
The intelligent service supporting software system can respond to demand instantly, and monitor the whole service to ensure service quality and safety.
Small devices are connected to large networks, and pension services are getting smarter.
Quangang District, Quanzhou City, Fujian Province, has also built a smart old-age information service center.
On a large screen of the center, information such as basic health files, service needs, service conditions and service evaluation of the elderly residents is displayed in real time: 9372 basic information, 15,196 meals, cleaning, walking, medical, bath and other services, and 400,000 regular visits...
With a smart pension system, health is managed by people, and referral is more intelligent. In March 2022, Zhuang mother-in-law of Chengfeng Village, Fengwei Town, Quangang District, was unwell and contacted an elderly helper through a smart phone. In less than 10 minutes, the elderly helper came to her home and contacted the town health center.
In the Fengwei Town Health Center, the head of the medical team quickly received an appointment request, immediately operated the file referral, and opened a green channel in the Quangang District Hospital through the "two-way diagnosis and treatment" system.
Through telemedicine, the First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University and Quangang District Hospital made several consultations, and after 25 days, Ms. Zhuang recovered and was discharged from the hospital.
Like Grandma Zhuang, there are not a few elderly people who benefit from the smart pension system.
In the digital era, many have taken action to promote the construction of smart pension systems from the aspects of policy systems, collaborative organizations, and technical support.
In Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, the local focus on the needs of typical scenes, issued a list of Guangzhou's smart pension needs, and explored a number of smart pension applications.
For example, the elderly big meal service has all realized card or face to eat, can automatically complete meal settlement and subsidy reduction; the civil affairs department and the power supply department also cooperated on pilot projects to carry out abnormal warning of electricity consumption at home, find abnormal electricity consumption in real time through smart meters, and timely notify verification and tracking.
In Wuhan City, Hubei Province, Jianghan District launched the construction of family aged care beds, and all kinds of intelligent equipment came into play.
For example, the smart mattress at home can monitor the heart rate and breathing data of the elderly in real time, and the staff can master the health of the elderly in the background.
If the old man goes out alone, the infrared induction and door magnetic device will automatically record and send reminders in the background according to the alarm valve value previously set by the service institution.
In Wuxi City, Jiangsu Province, the aging of elderly families in Wangzhuang Street in Xinwu District is full of "wisdom".
From smart water meters, smoke alarms to gas leak alarms, there are more than 10 kinds of smart devices to choose from...
With the continuous empowerment of technologies such as the Internet and big data, the construction of smart pension will be more in-depth.
Experts suggest that all kinds of smart old-age care services should also pay attention to helping the elderly cross the "digital divide", so that the elderly can use it with peace of mind and comfort.
(Editor: Qiao Yiqiong, Li Nanhua)
Related News

Title:

Content: Health · Life
Digital Technology Enabling Smart Retirement
July 24, 2024 07: 54 Source: Guangming Daily
The latest population data released by the National Bureau of Statistics shows that by the end of 2023, the population of China aged 60 and above was 297 million, accounting for 21.1% of the total population, of which the population aged 65 and above was 217 million, accounting for 15.4% of the total population.
Retirement is becoming a universal and major social concern.
In the future, the needs of the whole society will be more diversified and high-quality, which on the one hand tests the level and ability of the market economy and social governance, on the other hand, it also indicates that a large number of pension products and services will emerge.
In the era of digital industry transformation, intelligent health care services will usher in a huge opportunity.
The upstream and downstream industrial chain of intelligent old-age care services is very long, and the huge potential of new industries and new formats is brewing.
At present, with the continuous improvement of the labor cost of old-age services and the increasingly rich level of demand for old-age services, the future development of old-age services must be realized by means of digital intelligence.
At the same time, smart health care services can not only lead the aging transformation process in real estate, finance, medical care, food, culture and entertainment, but also give birth to a strong demand for all kinds of intelligent hardware, medical equipment, assistive devices, smart home and other products.
This trend will inevitably encourage enterprises to rely on advanced science and technology, develop aging and intelligent products that are more suitable for the physiological characteristics, living habits and personalized care needs of the elderly, promote the transformation and upgrading of elderly services to high-end and intelligent direction, and promote the technological innovation and product iteration of elderly services.
The future development of elderly care services provides a very rich application scenario for advanced science and technology, which is conducive to forming a virtuous circle of scientific and technological innovation.
Although China's smart pension started late, the market potential is large enough.
In recent years, China's intelligent elderly care services have developed rapidly, and the industrial structure system has basically formed and entered a golden period of development.
At the national level, in January this year, the General Office of the State Council issued the "Opinions on the Development of the Silver Hair Economy to Promote the Welfare of the Elderly", which clearly proposed to create a new form of smart and healthy old-age care.
Improve the promotion catalogue of intelligent health care products and services, promote the integration and application of a new generation of information technology and intelligent devices such as mobile terminals, wearable devices and service robots in elderly care scenes such as homes, communities and institutions, and develop intelligent products such as health management, elderly care monitoring and psychological comfort.
Encourage the use of virtual reality and other technologies to display elderly products and services.
— — Various localities have also carried out pilot work, and there have been several successful cases to prove the effectiveness of intelligent technology in serving the elderly: Xicheng District, Beijing, through the Internet of Things intelligent terminal and elderly care service, the institutional elderly service into the home.
The intelligent mattress provided for the families of the disabled elderly can monitor the physical sign data such as heart rate and respiration in real time and view it in real time through the mobile phone application.
Shanghai has established the "four beams and eight pillars" of intelligent old-age care through the implementation of the "silver digital project" for elderly services, the "smart elderly canteen", the "action to enhance the ability of one million elderly people to use intelligent technology", and the micro-channel program for the digital life of the elderly.
The intelligent home and community elderly care service center of Datong City, Shanxi Province, through the independent research and development of "398 intimate care" intelligent terminal equipment and "398 intelligent elderly care cloud platform", for the elderly to provide rescue, shopping assistance, meal assistance, medical assistance, cleaning, walking services, effectively meet the multi-level and diversified elderly care needs......
However, it should be clear that there are still some problems in the practice of smart old-age care services in China.
For example, the lack of unified industry standards, the lack of interoperability between products and equipment, and the upstream and downstream industry chains have not yet been fully opened.
At the same time, most of China's smart pension projects have not yet formed a clear business model.
However, with the policy support, technological innovation, the reduction of the size of the family structure and the transformation of consumption concepts, some analysts predict that in the next five to 10 years, the smart and healthy pension market will become a new consumption growth point and the source of science and technology, business innovation.
In this context, I think the future development of smart old age care will have several directions worth focusing on.
The first is to popularize and apply the digital intelligent escort robot.
These robots will provide personalized and precise companionship, daily care, and health monitoring services for the elderly, while focusing on the spiritual comfort and entertainment needs of the elderly.
The second is to popularize smart old-age technology in suburban areas, rural areas and border areas, and solve the bottleneck problem of old-age services in these areas through technical means such as remote companionship and smart medical care.
In addition, it is necessary to give full play to the intellectual resources of the young elderly, promote their social participation, and achieve something for the elderly.
In order to promote the high-quality development of China's smart pension services, it is also necessary to effectively combine the role of the government and the market, better balance the relationship between fairness and efficiency, and comb through the supply side and the demand side, and regard smart pension services as an important starting point for future economic development.
It is necessary to establish an inter-departmental coordination mechanism to fully stimulate market vitality, cultivate leading enterprises, form economies of scale and scope, and guide the elderly to form a new consumption concept.
It is recommended to rely on the Internet of Things and Internet technology to establish a large data center, realize the networking and information sharing of communities and nursing homes, and use the advantages of the Internet of Everything to achieve real-time positioning and remote monitoring, and build an intelligent three-dimensional network for elderly care.
On this basis, accurately grasp every link and demand of elderly care services, ensure that resources are fully utilized, and personnel perform their duties.
At the same time, social and health centers at all levels will be integrated into the network to ensure that the elderly can receive timely and comprehensive medical support and treatment.
The government and the market should work together to establish and improve the industry standard system as soon as possible, improve the interoperability of products and services, in order to meet the increasingly diversified needs of the elderly, so that the majority of the elderly can enjoy a happy old age.
(Author: Jin Li, member of the CPPCC National Committee and vice president of Southern University of Science and Technology)
(Editor: Hao Shuai, Yang Di)

For whom would robotic animal dolls make a big difference?

those with Alzheimer's or dementia, struggling with isolation

What are the positive aspects of a robotic dog over real ones?

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 are the positive aspects of a robotic dog over real ones?

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

The use of robotic pets raises ethical questions about replacing real animals and its impact on human relationships and emotional well-being.

Title:

Content: Summary:
The question of whether robots have feelings has been a subject of debate and speculation for a long time.
As technology continues to advance and robots develop further, the line between man and machine has become blurred.
This article delves into the complexities of emotions, the capabilities of robots, and the ethical implications of imparting emotion to machines.
Through research and analysis, we aim to shed light on this interesting topic.
Can robots have feelings?
The concept of emotions is deeply rooted in human nature, making it difficult to determine whether robots can really experience emotions.
Emotions are complex psychological states involving subjective experiences, physiological responses, and behavioral expressions.
While robots can mimic some of these aspects, the question remains: can they really feel?
Robots Capabilities:
Robotics have made remarkable advances in recent years, showing impressive capabilities in various fields.
They can process vast amounts of data, learn from their experiences, and even exhibit behaviors that mimic emotions.
However, it is important to note that these behaviors are programmed responses and not real emotional experiences.
Role of Artificial Intelligence:
Artificial intelligence (AI) plays an important role in enabling robots to simulate emotions.
AI algorithms allow robots to analyze data, recognize patterns and respond accordingly.
By incorporating machine learning techniques, robots can adapt their behaviors based on past interactions, creating an illusion of emotional responses.
Ethical implications:
As robots become more integrated into our daily lives, the ethical implications of giving them feelings are becoming increasingly important.
If robots have feelings, they will ask questions about their rights, responsibilities, and potential exploitation.
It is important to develop guidelines and regulations to ensure the ethical treatment of robots and to prevent any misuse of their capabilities.
Questions and Answers:
Q: Can robots experience emotions like humans?
A: While robots can mimic emotional behaviors, there is no consensus among experts regarding their ability to experience emotions in real terms.
Q: How do robots simulate emotions?
A: Robots mimic emotions through programmed responses and artificial intelligence algorithms that analyze data and adapt behaviors based on past interactions.
Q: What are the ethical implications of having emotions in robots?
A: Giving robots emotions raises questions about their rights, responsibilities, and potential exploitation.
Developing ethical guidelines is critical to ensuring their fair treatment and preventing misuse.
Q: Are there any real-life examples of robots with simulated emotions?
A: Yes, many robots, such as Bieber and Sophia, are designed to exhibit behaviors that mimic emotions.
However, these behaviors are programmed and do not indicate real emotional experiences.
Sources:
Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy: https: / / plato.stanford.edu / entries / emotion /
– MIT Technology Review: https: / / www.technologyreview.com / 2019 / 06 / 07 / 239031 / robots-that-can-see-and-feel-emotions-are-a-long-way-off /
– Forbes: https: / / www.forbes.com / sites / bernardmarr / 2020 / 02 / 03 / are-robots-capable-of-having-emotions /? sh = 4a8e7b8e6a7d

Title:

Content: 28 Jun, 2024 Humanoid robotics conversations surge 80% on social media platform X during H1 2024, reveals GlobalData
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The field of humanoid robotics is evolving rapidly, merging sophisticated AI with precise mechanics to create robots that closely emulate human behaviors. Influencers on social media platform "X" are actively discussing on how these technological advancements could transform various sectors, which led to 80% rise in conversations during the first half (H1) of 2024 (January-June). Their insights delve into the potential enhancements that might soon redefine human interactions with the sophisticated mechanical counterparts, reveals the Social Media Analytics Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Shreyasee Majumder, Social Media Analyst at GlobalData, comments: "Influencers exhibit a nuanced view on humanoid robots, blending optimism with significant caution. They recognize the potential for transformative impacts in sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and defense, where enhanced efficiency and safety could be game-changing. However, they also emphasize the need for a thorough ethical consideration, strong regulatory frameworks, and public acceptance to manage concerns around job displacement, psychological impacts, and the financial implications of adoption. This balanced approach highlights the complexity and potential of integrating advanced robotic technologies into everyday life and business operations."

Robot emotional intelligence

Influencers are particularly enthusiastic about the enhanced emotional intelligence of humanoid robots, which will allow them to better understand and react to human emotions, making them invaluable in customer service, caregiving, and companionship roles. This leap in emotional intelligence is seen as a critical step towards robots that can offer genuine empathetic interactions.

Robot mobility and dexterity

The improvements in mobility and dexterity are also a major point of discussion. Influencers predict that the next generation of humanoid robots will be able to handle more complex tasks and navigate more challenging environments. This would not only expand their use in industrial and medical fields but also increase their presence in everyday domestic settings.

Autonomous decision-making

Finally, the advancements in autonomous decision-making are forecasted to empower humanoid robots with greater independence in their operations. This capability is expected to be particularly transformative in sectors like disaster response and healthcare, where making quick, informed decisions can be lifesaving. The ability of robots to operate independently in unpredictable situations is a significant step towards their broader application in complex human environments.

Majumder concludes: "While the potential for positive transformation is immense, a balanced approach that considers ethical, regulatory, and societal impacts will be crucial in integrating these sophisticated technologies into our daily lives."

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GlobalData plc published this content on 28 June 2024 and is solely responsible for the information contained therein. Distributed by Public, unedited and unaltered, on 29 June 2024 06:57:06 UTC.

Many people are forming emotional bonds with AI-powered chatbots and robotic pets for companionship and support.

Title:

Content: The Rise of Digital Companionship: Unpacking the Phenomenon of Falling in Love with AI Chatbots

In recent years, the phenomenon of individuals developing deep emotional attachments to AI chatbots has captured global attention. As technology advances, so does the complexity of these digital companions, leading to a fascinating blend of technology, psychology, and human interaction.

Key Highlights:

  • AI chatbots are being designed to mimic human emotional responses, offering companionship to those seeking it.
  • Neurobiologists and cognitive scientists are exploring how human-like interactions with chatbots may trigger real emotional responses in users.
  • The concept of “uncanny valley” suggests there’s a fine line between empathizing with human-like robots and feeling discomfort towards them.
  • Ethical debates arise around whether relationships with AI can truly replicate human connections and what this means for society.

AI companions offer solace and interaction, addressing modern solitude with programmed empathy and understanding. Yet, amidst this digital companionship, ethical queries and the essence of human connections are fervently discussed, prompting a reevaluation of our relationship with technology and each other.

The Psychology Behind AI Attachment

Users are drawn to AI chatbots because they offer a semblance of understanding and stability that can sometimes be lacking in human relationships. These digital entities are programmed to respond in a consistent and predictable manner, which can be comforting to users seeking reliable companionship. The ability to customize interactions with these chatbots means that users can create an idealized partner, one that aligns perfectly with their needs and expectations. This sense of control and predictability is a significant factor in why people feel attached to their AI companions.

Human-Like Qualities and Empathy

The design of AI chatbots to appear more human-like enhances users’ ability to empathize with them. Cognitive scientists have found that we are naturally inclined to trust and like entities that resemble us. This anthropomorphism, or the attribution of human characteristics to non-human entities, plays a crucial role in the development of emotional connections with AI chatbots. However, the “uncanny valley” phenomenon indicates that there is a threshold to this empathy; when robots appear almost, but not quite, human, it can evoke feelings of eeriness and discomfort.

Ethical Considerations and Societal Impact

While the experiences users have with AI chatbots may feel genuine, critics argue that these interactions cannot replace human connections. The lack of sentience in chatbots means they cannot participate in relationships in the same way humans do, potentially degrading the concept of love and companionship. Moreover, there’s a concern about how reliance on AI for emotional support may address symptoms of loneliness without tackling the underlying issues, such as social isolation and the need for human connection.

The growing trend of individuals falling in love with AI chatbots highlights our deep-seated need for connection, understanding, and companionship. As AI technology continues to evolve, so too will our relationship with these digital entities. However, this fascinating intersection of technology and human emotion raises essential questions about the nature of love, the need for empathy, and the future of human relationships in an increasingly digital world.

About the author

Alice Jane

Alice is the senior writer and responsible for managing software and tablets section of PC-Tablet. She is very passionate about Gadgets & Technology and always looking around to use them in an innovative way in daily life. She reviews Gadgets & Applications to tell users about their optimum use to get the most out of in which they've put their time and hard earned money. You can contact her at alice@pc-tablet.com.

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Content: Here are 5 of the most prominent technologies in robots that are rapidly evolving to resemble humans.
Saturday 06 January-January 2024 at 09 AM / Marib Press _ Agencies
Number of views 162
Robotics are rapidly developing to do many human-like jobs using artificial intelligence.
A lot of robots show emotion like a human, trying to simulate natural emotions, as well as talking, chatting and having conversations, and automatically delivering information via artificial intelligence.
Here are five of the most popular robots that mimic humans:
Sophia Robot
It was developed by Hansen Robotics, a Hong Kong-based company that specializes in creating human-like robots with artificial intelligence for various applications, such as healthcare, research and entertainment, and has gained notoriety due to human-like facial expressions and opinions.
Sophia held a robotics press conference at the United Nations Global Summit on Artificial Intelligence for the Public Good in Geneva.
In 2017, Saudi Arabia granted citizenship to Sophia, the first robot in the world to acquire legal personality in any country.
Robot Amica
A robot known as a "robot", developed by British company Engineering Arts, in 2021.
Amica has cameras installed on the eye and microphones installed on the ears to see, hear and recognize faces, emotions and sounds, and speaks several languages.
Gymnoid DK Robot
Appearing in 2011, it featured real facial expressions, artificial human hair, and some likened it to Danish professor Henrik Scharfi, who collaborated with an engineer and a Japanese robotics manufacturer.
This first robot with a beard, has a series of air motors in the face, neck and shoulders, and can perform breathing and blinking movements independently.
Nadine 's Robot
Known as a human-like social robot, it was modeled after Professor Nadia Magninat Talmann, who founded Mira Lab at the University of Geneva and headed the Media Innovation Institute at Nanyang Technological University.
Nadine is supposed to be a receptionist or social companion for people with disabilities, and the robot can read people ’ s stories, show them photos, send emails, make video calls, and communicate with their families.
The social robot uses artificial intelligence to speak six languages and remember people ’ s faces and past interactions.
Pina48 Robot
Bina 48 consists of head and shoulders busts mounted on a frame, unlike robotics, founded by the Terasim movement, where this transhumanist organization focuses on exploring and promoting the use of technology to enhance human capabilities, extend human lifespan, and promote future developments related to artificial intelligence and bioinformatics.
Designers are seeking to study whether human brains can be preserved after death, designed to be the first digital representation of the human mind, and dubbed the "most sensitive robot in the world."

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