Soon, a robot to support old people

Staying alone may not be a nightmare any more, thanks to scientists who are developing a robot which they claim can support independent living for the elderly people.

A team, led by the University of the West of England in Bristol is working on a project aimed at creating the robot and some sensors as part of an intelligent system of caring for older people.

According to the scientists, the project produces three key systems of caring - a wearable health status monitor with smart sensors woven into undergarments; a secure tele- alarm and health reporting system; and a nutrition support system which will consist for example of reminders for when meals and drinks should be taken.

All these systems will be linked to a robotic platform, which will also facilitate communications -- helping people to keep in touch with friends or relatives, or create shopping lists using voice recognition, they say.

Lead scientist, Dr Praminda Caleb Solly, said: "We are working with some of Europe's leading robotic and wearable sensor companies in this field, to ensure that the technology being developed enhances the lives of older adults and gives them the ability to make informed lifestyle choices."

"We hope that the health monitoring and the nutrition support systems will help people to track and maintain better standard of health and activity, helping them live alone for as long as possible," said Dr Solly.

"Six user groups of older people -- three in the UK and three in the Netherlands will take part in the research. Initially we will look closely at the context in which older people live, their expectations and perceptions, to ensure the technology that is developed brings real benefits to them."

Several cycles of field testing and modification will be done to enable the technology to be closely aligned to user needs, say the scientists.

Dr Solly said: "This research could have long term benefits in supporting a growing elderly population. We need to look at these systems holistically in the context of real lives and ensure that the support they give to older people living independently matches their expectations and meets a real need."

She further added: "The ethical aspects of using robots with older people will also be considered as part of this research."