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Researchers at Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology began developing Paro in the early 1990s. More than 30 years later, the fawn-eyed baby seal is still best known as a therapy robot for the elderly. In 2011, the robot reached pop culture heights. Unofficial cameo appearance About “The Simpsons.”
Japan has dominated the market for tech robots for the elderly for decades, thanks to its eagerness to embrace new technologies and an aging population. 29 percent With 100 percent of the country’s population over the age of 65, longer life expectancies are a positive, but they can also lead to a breakdown in support systems. Robots have been proposed for decades as a way to fill labor shortages in the care market and reduce loneliness among the elderly.
The numbers in the United States are less dramatic, but the population is also aging. There are now 62 million Americans over the age of 65, making up 18% of the total population. According to Pew Research, That figure is expected to rise to 84 million.By 2054, 23% of the population is expected to be women.
The United States, which like Japan has an aging population, has not been as enthusiastic about adopting similar technology. The New York State Office on Aging (NYSOFA) has been trying to turn that around for several years. Since 2018, the agency has Over 31,500 robot pets distributed Acting director Greg Olsen said the program was inspired by his then-8-year-old daughter, who bought a robotic pet from Amazon.
“When I got home and saw it, I said, ‘That would be amazing to try,'” he told TechCrunch on a Zoom call. Olsen joined the call from his office, standing in front of a row of large metal drawers with dozens of boxes of robotic pets sitting on shelves, each with three different options: a retriever-like dog, a cat, and a red and blue bird.
All three of these Timeless innovationFounded in 2015 as a Hasbro spinoff, the company specializes in making robotic pets for seniors through its Joy for All brand. A cat debuted later that year, and a dog came out in 2016. Both models share DNA with robots designed by Hasbro-owned Robotics. FurReal Friends.
The bird is the latest addition to the series. Formally named the Walker Squawker, the tiny robot attaches to a walking aid. Like dogs and cats, the tiny squawker responds to light and touch, and will start meowing if it senses a lack of movement, encouraging its owner to use the aid. But Olsen notes that the retriever is the most popular of the bunch, accounting for about 60 percent of all requests.
The same year that NYSOFA began testing these robots with elderly New Yorkers, Olsen points out that U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy said: Loneliness ‘associated with shorter life span’ “Loneliness is equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day and even greater than that caused by obesity.” In addition to physical problems, isolation can accelerate cognitive decline in older adults. The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly exacerbated the problem. Recently, Murthy said loneliness is an epidemic in itself.
Studies have demonstrated that having a pet is an effective way to combat loneliness in older adults.Those who own pets are 36% less likely One study found that “in models that took into account age, living situation (single vs. non-single), well-being, and seasonal residence, pet owners were more likely to report loneliness than non-pet owners.”
But for a variety of reasons, having a pet isn’t always a realistic option for seniors. That’s where robots come in. Given the recent origins of the phenomenon, research into robotic pets is significantly limited. But studies point to potential benefits, especially for those whose health limits their ability to interact with humans and animals.
“Owning a pet reduces depression and loneliness “Without the risks associated with pharmacological interventions,” a 2022 study on robotic pets noted, “participants’ interactions with their pets provided meaningful activity and positive experiences, especially when COVID-19 restrictions were at their worst, with participants in isolation and limited family visitation.”
The study adds that human interaction remains important: “More importantly, conversations between participants, family members and professional caregivers enhanced the therapeutic environment.”
While robotic pets show promise in fighting loneliness, they’re not a cure in themselves, Olsen noted, and the robotic pet program is one of 21 partnerships NYSOFA has with tech companies, including one with Intuition Robotics. Produce ElliQThe agency has distributed about 900 of the social robots, which help users stay in touch and keep an eye on their loved ones. NYSOFA also offers other services for seniors, such as transportation and phone trees.
Olsen said the six-year-old robot pet program has been one of the organization’s most effective tools. He cited numerous stories of clients who became attached to their pets, including one woman who told NYSOFA, “I need to get this cat off my dead hands.” Another client asked to be buried with his robot, Olsen said. Mourners at his funeral were initially confused when they heard muffled cries coming from inside the casket.