As AI becomes increasingly ubiquitous, providing a paradox of innovation and risks, efficiencies and uncertainty, possibilities, and probabilities, some are asking this one question: “Wouldn’t it be great if tech developers used their AI powers for good and not for evil?”
Well, this time they did!
AI developers are receiving praise for creating AI-powered robot technology with seniors in mind. This thoughtful move enabled some very progressive elder care facilities and adult children of aging parents across the globe to introduce AI-powered companions to assist in the care and keeping of the aging population.
AI-powered technologies like ElliQ are touting benefits like medication reminders, fall detection, remembering appointments, and more, with a hope to promote independence, simplify communication with caregivers, and to combat loneliness.
Created by Intuition Robotics, ElliQ is a voice-activated smart tech that conversationally engages with users similar to Siri or Alexa but with a modern, minimalist, sculptural aesthetic.
ElliQ’s makers say that she was created exclusively for use by seniors and is primarily considered “a friend.”
With a head that moves and voice activated ring lights, ElliQ boasts a camera that can be used for video calls and is also coded to message contacts.
Its makers say that this digital assistant can lead users in breathing exercises, meditation, present workout videos, and can even “dance.”
Users have the option to play video and games, but the robot has a limited roster of genres. She also can initiate video calls and message contacts on behalf of the user.
Holly Rhodes-Teague, Director of the Suffolk County Office for the Aging, touted that, “ElliQ is a game-changer. It’s not just a device — it’s a companion that helps older adults feel less isolated and more engaged.”
According to ElliQ’s landing page, 96% of users reported that use of this AI-powered technology led to feelings of improvement in their health and wellness. 73% of ElliQ users stated that they felt more connected with their friends and their community.
While 94% experienced an improvement in their quality of life.
Other technologies like PARO have entered the space, providing an AI-powered robot that looks like a stuffed animal for pet therapy.
PARO is designed to look and sound like a baby harp seal and is primarily used as a companion for seniors, especially those with dementia.
It functions as a form of “animal-assisted therapy,” without the drawbacks and responsibilities of a real pet, yet receiving some of the advantages and benefits.
Although a hybrid of a stuffed animal and an AI-powered robot, PARO has been industry-certified as a medical device.
PARO mimics real-life pets in that it responds to its name and, due to sensors on its fur, PARO responds to being stroked or pet.
While not completely life-like, it does have a motion-powered head and blinking eyes. Another unique benefit of PARO is the developer’s insight to build in sensors that mimic circadian rhythms which allows it to be more active during the day and less active at night.
Dr. Takanori Shibata, creator of PARO and Professor at the Tokyo Institute of Technology, shared that “PARO uses emotional intelligence to bring comfort to dementia patients, by decreasing common symptoms like anxiety, agitation, and aggression.”
Chinese researchers at the Nursing Department, the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University conducted a systematic review of PARO that demonstrated that “interaction with Paro can be beneficial for improving quality of life (QOL), biopsychological conditions, and reducing psychotropic and pain medical usage.”
Despite minor criticisms like one user stating that ElliQ randomly interrupted them throughout the day. Another said, “It felt a bit dystopian.”
While it’s a useful and delightful gadget, ElliQ lacks some of the functionalities that would make her an ideal companion for senior adults.
While she can phone user contacts that are uploaded to the application, she can’t contact emergency services.
With all of this said, this writer has spent the last several years not only heralding the efficiencies of artificial intelligence but also warning of the risks of emerging technologies.
However, both ElliQ and Paro have given me something to champion when it comes to AI, what their developers deem as robot companions, and their benefits on the aging population.
What a breath of fresh air to see AI developers create brilliant, smart, and helpful technologies with seniors at the forefront and our aging parents and grandparents in mind.
The partnership between the healthcare industry, medical professionals, and technology developers is not new.
However, this is tech that can bring happiness, joy, and contentment to users across the generational spectrum, bringing families closer together, and be a catalyst to providing an improved quality of life for seniors in their old age, this present age, and this very fast-moving digital age.
(Editor’s Note: The preceding opinion column is not an endorsement of any product or service, on the part of Newsmax.)
V. Venesulia Carr is a former United States Marine, CEO of Vicar Group, LLC and host of “Down to Business with V.,” a television show focused on cyber awareness and cyber safety. She is a speaker, consultant and news commentator providing insight on technology, cybersecurity, fraud mitigation, national security, and military affairs. Read V. Venesulia Carr’s reports — More Here.
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