Family robots and other technology such as Siri and Alexa have been used for assistance in many tasks, but they are starting to be seen as a potential solution to address “the epidemic of loneliness and isolation” that millions of older adults suffer from.
According to Duke Today, “A growing body of research on companion robots suggests they can reduce stress and loneliness and can help older people remain healthy and active in their homes,” claimed a study conducted by Murali Doraiswamy, a Duke University professor of psychiatry and geriatrics.
Along with alleviating loneliness and stress, robot companions can also help with many common-day tasks, such as reminders for medication, appointments, and exercise. There are also other minor tasks that a family robot can help with, such as turning on the TV and having some fun. A few examples are ElliQ, who engages in conversations and plays games like trivia; Astro, who can follow commands, play music, and turn on the TV; and Jibo, who shows off his dance moves and responds to voice commands. These robots also can provide safety and security: some robot companions have monitoring systems or emergency response capabilities.
However, not everyone thinks robot companions are the solution. Some experts believe that while robots can provide limited value, they aren’t sophisticated or well-developed enough to address individual needs. In other words, they’re not personalized to deal with personal issues and preferences effectively.
Similarly, while robots can provide companionship, they may not be able to establish the same emotional connection and empathy as human interaction. A dependence on robots could further isolate them from human relationships, especially if it replaces meaningful relationships with family and friends. Some customers and consumers also have concerns about their privacy and security, but most agree it’s unlikely that their robot companion will suddenly leak their personal information on the internet.
“Right now, all evidence points to having a real friend as the best solution,” said Doraiswamy. “But until society prioritizes social connectedness and elder care, robots are a solution for the millions of isolated people who have no other solutions.”
According to Duke Today, “A growing body of research on companion robots suggests they can reduce stress and loneliness and can help older people remain healthy and active in their homes,” claimed a study conducted by Murali Doraiswamy, a Duke University professor of psychiatry and geriatrics.
Along with alleviating loneliness and stress, robot companions can also help with many common-day tasks, such as reminders for medication, appointments, and exercise. There are also other minor tasks that a family robot can help with, such as turning on the TV and having some fun. A few examples are ElliQ, who engages in conversations and plays games like trivia; Astro, who can follow commands, play music, and turn on the TV; and Jibo, who shows off his dance moves and responds to voice commands. These robots also can provide safety and security: some robot companions have monitoring systems or emergency response capabilities.
However, not everyone thinks robot companions are the solution. Some experts believe that while robots can provide limited value, they aren’t sophisticated or well-developed enough to address individual needs. In other words, they’re not personalized to deal with personal issues and preferences effectively.
Similarly, while robots can provide companionship, they may not be able to establish the same emotional connection and empathy as human interaction. A dependence on robots could further isolate them from human relationships, especially if it replaces meaningful relationships with family and friends. Some customers and consumers also have concerns about their privacy and security, but most agree it’s unlikely that their robot companion will suddenly leak their personal information on the internet.
“Right now, all evidence points to having a real friend as the best solution,” said Doraiswamy. “But until society prioritizes social connectedness and elder care, robots are a solution for the millions of isolated people who have no other solutions.”