Robots Assist with Caregiving Challenges

Brenda and Brian Marquis, residents of Durham, New Hampshire, experienced the assistance of a unique caregiver: a robot named Robbie. After the loss of their second service dog, the couple found a technological solution to help with daily challenges. Brian, aged 59, has coped with a traumatic brain injury since a 2012 car accident.

Robbie, a robot that enters their living space multiple times a day, offers prompts like, ‘Do you want to exercise now? Please answer yes or no.’ Brian responds affirmatively, triggering the robot’s screen to display an exercise video. This innovation exemplifies ongoing efforts to develop practical home robots, coupled with an increasing need for elder care solutions.

The project, funded by the National Institute of Aging and driven by a University of New Hampshire lab, highlights evolving possibilities. Though initially seeking robotic dogs, Brenda Marquis sought advice from robotics experts and discovered the benefits of Stretch, a version of the robot assisting their family. Stretch aids Brian, who is living with dementia, by reminding him to eat and drink.

Brenda noted the complexity of their situation due to physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities. She acknowledged the shortage of home care aides in New Hampshire as a significant challenge. This prompted her to explore robotics for support and assistance.

Momotaz Begum, a computer science professor at UNH, has focused on socially assistive robots. While many older adults preferred pet-like robots, Begum noted that function, rather than appearance, matters more in robotics. The Stretch robot exemplifies this principle.

Beyond robotic vacuums, devices like AI-powered speakers offer companionship but lack mobility. Hello Robot’s Stretch model focuses on practicality and safety for individuals with limited mobility. It avoids the challenges of complex humanoid robots.

Aaron Edsinger, CEO of Hello Robot, explained that the robot’s simplicity addresses practical caregiving needs. Stretch features capabilities like a telescoping gripper, enabling users to drink from a straw. It also assists with reading medication labels, utilizing integrated sensors to navigate home environments.

Manufactured in California and selling for nearly $30,000, Robbie provides a crucial service to the Marquis family. The programmed care protocol for Brian includes reminders for meals, exercises, medications, and personal hygiene. Robbie’s presence transformed Brian’s daily routine, offering him newfound independence.

Brenda highlighted the economic and emotional relief she experienced thanks to Robbie. No longer concerned about leaving Brian alone, she can now run errands independently. Robbie’s presence allows her the freedom to engage in activities like playing mahjong.

Robbie has ‘really set me free almost,’ Brian Marquis remarked, acknowledging the transformative role of technology in his daily life.