Care robots: what you need to know about them
Care is a very personal matter that requires a great deal of human interaction and emotional compatibility. It therefore seems almost contradictory that mechanical helpers are now establishing themselves alongside human professionals: care robots, which are seen as examples of the ongoing development of artificial intelligence in the care sector.
The use of care robots has now become an important part of modern care concepts. These social robots in nursing care entertain, care for and alert the ambulance or emergency doctor in an emergency.
People who need care usually have more than just health problems. Loneliness and the need for social contact also plague many people in need of long-term care.
Therefore, it is self-explanatory that not only the professional competence and practical experience of a nurse are decisive for a pleasant cooperation, but also the satisfaction of emotional needs and wishes.
The Caregiver is the only regular social contact for some people in need of care. Anyone who now fears that the use of care robots will lead to these factors in care being neglected can breathe a sigh of relief: the humanoid robots will not be used as a substitute, but as a Support for caregivers offered.
The care robot comes to Austria
What is already common practice in Asian countries such as Japan is now also finding its way into this country: the use of robotics in care is already being tested in nursing homes and some hospitals. Some private households, particularly in Styria, are also seeing these somewhat different care workers in some places.
Especially for Dementia sufferers, the little helpers that look like something out of a science fiction movie can be a noteworthy support:
The care robot "Pepper" accompanies people with dementia on their daily journeys and ensures that they cannot get lost. To entertain his patients, he can play music or movies on the tablet on his chest and offer small memory training games. Even everyday things, such as appointments and activities, are not forgotten thanks to Pepper.
Can a care robot really do everything?
There are now several different models of care robots on the market. Each version has very different capabilities and areas of application, and many can also be adapted to individual requirements through programming before purchase.
The most famous robot is about 1.20 meters tall Pepper. You may have already run into it at the mall, as the little companion is also offered in the areas of education, sales and customer service. It can be used in care, especially Entertainment opportunities and communication because Pepper has the ability to recognize a person's emotions and react to them. Such positive effects on the well-being of those in need of care are an example of how robots can contribute to improving quality of life. If you want functions in several different areas, you might want to use the Care-O-Bot The fact that it looks a little clunky with its abstract appearance could put off older people in particular. However, if you become familiar with the care alternative, the Care-O-Bot can be quite useful and give the caregiver more time to deal with the emotional needs of the person in need of care. For care recipients who are mainly motor-impaired and can only move around a little or perhaps not at all independently, the Robear a small prop. The almost gigantic-looking robot is modeled on the appearance of a teddy bear and can also lift and carry heavy patients. Aside from these widely known models, there are also many more available in Austria. This website has made an informative list of which care robots may be suitable. Almost everywhere in Austria, care facilities are overloaded. Caregivers have numerous people in need of care to look after - leaving little time for each individual person As a result, people in need of care are often lonely and, as there is no helping hand available, often have to put their needs on hold. This is where a care robot can come to the rescue: He entertains, dances and sings, brings food, drinks and tablets. It is crucial that human attention is not completely replaced by machines, as this remains an indispensable part of care. Although care robots are relatively new on the market in Europe, many people in need of care have given them a surprisingly warm welcome. In retirement homes where the small robots are being tested, the response has been very positive: patients see the little helpers almost like people and enjoy interacting with them. Just a few years ago, robots that could talk and interact with humans were unimaginable. But the technical innovation is relatively inexpensive. Some models can be purchased for as little as four figures. However, there are ongoing costs: For the maintenance of the human-like devices, you pay a monthly flat rate of about 100 euros. The price varies greatly, however, because the individual programming makes a big difference in terms of cost. There are also many different models that are suitable for different areas of application. However, you don't necessarily have to go to any expense - in many cases, health insurance will cover the purchase of a care robot, or at least pay part of the costs. Although viewed critically in many places, care robots certainly have advantages that a human caregiver cannot offer. Patience: People who need care are not always easy to reach. This means that the potential for conflict is high. A robot, on the other hand, remains neutral and friendly, even if it has already asked the same question several times. This can provide emotional support for the family and the caregiver of a person in need of care and alleviate the stress caused by conflicts. It also feels good for the person being cared for to have a helper who is always positive towards them. With the best will in the world, this is not always possible for a human being. Particularly when it comes to personal care, those affected have fewer inhibitions towards a robot than towards human assistants. Here, too, it is the always neutral and objective approach of the machines that facilitates such intimate aspects of care. When a care robot takes on tasks such as carrying shopping and planning appointments, the human caregiver has more time per appointment to spend with the person being cared for. This is because handling household tasks and organizational matters takes up a lot of time that can be put to better use elsewhere. However, mechanical care robots also have disadvantages. These must be taken into account when considering the purchase of a robot groomer. Since the robots are not a complete replacement for a competent specialist, this also means higher costs at the same time: For both supporters, monthly expenses are incurred. This can be particularly disadvantageous for those affected who are financially worse off. Despite all the progress made, the motor skills, i.e. movement skills, of a robot are still limited compared to those of a human. Although various structural measures are designed to prevent tipping over, an accident can still happen. The correct use of a care robot is a big change, especially for older people in need of care. They are not so well versed in the world of modern technology and have a lot to learn before they can handle the mechanical care worker properly. Forgetfulness and a lack of understanding can lead to the care robot becoming more of a hindrance than a support. For most people who have not grown up with digital devices, even using a smartphone is often a laborious undertaking. So it's no wonder that care robots are also met with some skepticism. Here patience is the answer: Don't expect your caregiving loved one to be able to adapt as quickly as you do. Even the friendliest and most committed mechanical friend is usually not immediately accepted as help. This takes time to adjust, which should be respected. A care robot is a great support in the everyday life of both caregivers and those in need of care, but none of the models available today can replace a human assistant. The scope of a robot's care options is not yet large enough for this, and your relative could feel lonely without the emotional attention of their usual caregiver.
Therefore, one cannot speak of an "either-or" here, but rather of a "complementary" one. Care robots can make things much easier for both parties involved in caring for a person. Thanks to their appealing appearance, most people accept the new helper and quickly become friends with the idea of a robotic care assistant. However, there are a few things to consider so that the familiarization process runs smoothly and the robot can make a contribution. You should never forget that even the most modern technology is no substitute for a competent caregiver. The future of care will likely be a combination of human caregivers and robotic support. Are you still looking for a human helper who can respond to your individual needs or those of your loved one? At noracares When a care robot can help
How much does a care robot cost - and who pays?
Care robots: advantages and disadvantages
Patience and emotional relief
Intimacy and neutrality in care
Disadvantages of care robots
Tips for the home care robot
Nora's conclusion
