Where are the robots we were told would help simplify our lives? Ready or not, they are here. From the living room, to the operating table, to more human-like prototypes, robotic technologies are advancing at a rapid pace and increasingly becoming a part of everyday life.
What about robots to help with eldercare? Given the caregiver shortage and the growing number of people who need care, surely there could be a role for robots, at least in some capacity. Indeed, there are a number of amazing and somewhat Jetson-esque solutions being developed by some very innovative companies.
GeckoSystems International Corporation is a leading developer of mobile service robots (MSRs) that specialize in safety, security, and service. The company has developed a robot called CareBot which is specifically designed to aid in eldercare.
So what does CareBot do? For starters, the robot can help monitor the care receiver from virtually anywhere in the home. It can alert caregivers or emergency personnel when a harmful event has occurred such as a fall or a medical emergency and can respond to calls for help. What about reminders for medication, doctor’s appointments, or family visits? No problem. As the video below shows, CareBot can even remind someone of when their favorite television show is on. Family caregivers find that the robot is an effective communication and networking device given the onboard webcam and video monitor. Interestingly, CareBot’s personality, voice, and phrases can be customized to suit the preferences and heritage of the elder. It can even play music, tell jokes, or retell family anecdotes.
CareBot does have some limitations. For instance the battery life is only about 10-20 hours. Also, its suitability for homes with indoor steps remains in question. Pricing is a mystery; however, other reports have pegged the cost at $10,000 to $15,000 each—expensive, but well below the annual cost of a nursing home. There is also the “big brother” issue to confront.
So will mom or dad come to view CareBot as a companion/caregiver of sorts? Not a replacement for human care, but perhaps a substitute for those times when the family caregiver cannot be there. As human beings it is our nature to develop connections outside of ourselves and not just with other people. We are capable of developing deep emotional bonds with pets and even talk to plants on occasion. As the presence of robotic technology in our daily life increases, is accepting a robot caregiver really such a stretch?
CareBot is eye-popping and stirs the imagination; however, we have a ways to go before it or something similar will be able to effectively service the masses. Until then, ElderBrief will continue to give our readers glimpses into the future of caregiving.
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