“Our research at the Innovation in Dementia & Aging Lab focuses on examining how technology and the environment impact dementia care. In Japan, where isolation and loneliness is a huge problem for older adults, Lovot robots – as their manufacturer calls them – have gained popularity as companions,” said Hung.
The need for creative solutions to address the demands and concerns of seniors, particularly in healthcare and caregiving, is growing as the world's population ages. The robots may also help with cognitive deterioration, which is common in the elderly. Seniors who want to keep their minds sharp can play memory games, solve puzzles, and do other cognitive activities with social robots.
Hung explained that social robots are intriguing because they are made to interact with people, which could help ease seniors’ loneliness. Global statistics show that loneliness levels in Canada are rising and something needs to be done.