A Brief History of Paro, the Doe-Eyed Seal Pup
In the early 1990s, a researcher at Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology began working on what would become Paro. More than 30 years after its development, the doe-eyed seal pup remains the best-known example of a therapeutic robot for older adults.
Therapeutic Robots: A Solution to Japan’s Aging Population
Japan has had the age tech robotics market cornered for decades, owing to both an eager embrace of new technology and an aging population. Twenty-nine percent of the nation’s population is 65 and older. An increase in life expectancy is, of course, a net positive, but it can also lead to an erosion in support structure.
For decades, robots have long been floated as a way to supplement human shortages in the care market and help older adults feel less alone. While the United States’ numbers aren’t quite as pronounced, the country is aging too. There are currently 62 million Americans aged 65 and older, accounting for 18% of the total population.
According to Pew Research, that figure is expected to increase to 84 million, or 23% of the population, by 2054. While trending older like Japan, the U.S. hasn’t embraced similar technologies as readily.
New York State’s Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) Takes a Lead
For several years, New York state’s Office for the Aging (NYSOFA) has worked to turn that around. Since 2018, the department has handed out more than 31,000 robot pets, which have shown promise in combating loneliness among older adults.
The NYSOFA provides other services to older adults as well, including transportation and phone trees. The six-year-old robot pets program has been one effective tool for the organization, according to Greg Olsen, the department’s Associate Commissioner.
Stories of Attachment
According to Olsen, there have been a number of stories of clients who have grown attached to their pets. One woman told the NYSOFA that they would have to "pry this cat from my dead hands." Another client asked to be buried with his robot, and when mourners at his service were initially baffled by muffled barking emerging from inside the casket.
Partnerships Between Tech Companies and Organizations
The NYSOFA has partnered with several tech companies, including Intuition Robotics, which produces ElliQ. The department has handed out nearly 900 of the social robots, which helps users connect to and monitor loved ones.
Other services provided by the NYSOFA include transportation and phone trees. While robot pets have shown promise in combating loneliness, they’re not a cure unto themselves. Olsen notes that more research is needed to fully understand their impact.
The Future of Therapeutic Robots
As the aging population continues to grow, it’s likely that we’ll see more investments in age tech and therapeutic robots. With advancements in AI and machine learning, these robots are becoming increasingly sophisticated, capable of recognizing emotions and adapting to user needs.
It remains to be seen how effective they will ultimately prove to be in combatting loneliness among older adults. However, the early results from New York state’s robot pets program offer a glimmer of hope for those working to address this pressing issue.
The Benefits of Therapeutic Robots
- Reducing Loneliness: Therapeutic robots have been shown to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation in older adults.
- Improving Mental Health: These robots can help alleviate symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.
- Enhancing Social Interaction: They provide a platform for social interaction, enabling older adults to connect with others and build relationships.
Conclusion
The rise of therapeutic robots is an exciting development in the field of age tech. With their ability to recognize emotions and adapt to user needs, they have the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of older adults.
As we continue to explore the benefits and limitations of these robots, it’s clear that they are an important tool in addressing the pressing issue of loneliness among older adults.