Old Age Care Robots

https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9wdzyyglq5o

What growing role are robots playing?

Elderly care

Why are robots playing a growing role in elderly care?

Because of UK's escalating social care crisis

What is the UK’s escalating social care crisis marked by?

Severe shortage of care workers and rising numbers of older adults needing help

Examples of innovative robotic technologies:

Shadow Robot Company's advanced robotic hands and Japan's caretaking robots—HUG, Paro, and Pepper

What do rising innovative robotic technologies assist with in terms of elderly care?

Lifting, dementia stimulation, and exercise

What is the reaction towards innovative robotic technologies in elderly care like?

Mixed

What can robots offer in terms of elderly care?

Support

Are robots entirely effective in terms of elderly care?

No

What limits robots’ effectiveness in elderly care?

Maintenance, user accessibility, and emotional responses

What do developers continually do to robot designs?

Improve them

What do developers improve robot designs for?

Better adaptability, dexterity, and self-maintenance

What are improvements on robot designs by developers based on?

Feedback from elders and care providers

What do UK initiatives regarding robots include?

A £34 million government investment and projects like the Robot Dexterity Programme

What does the Robot Dexterity Programme aim to do?

Create robots with human-like skills

How can robots have human-like skills?

By having artificial muscles that replicate real movements

What can advancements by the UK in terms of robots for elderly care do?

Alleviate pressure on overstretched care staff and allow human carers more quality time

How do advancements in robots for elderly care alleviate pressure on overstretched care staff?

By handling routine tasks

What concerns about widespread robot use remain?

That it might reduce wages and worsen conditions for care workers if not properly regulated

What do experts stress regarding concerns about robot use?

Urgent need to shape policies ensuring robots serve people’s needs safely and ethically in the future care landscape