Affiliations: DeustoTech-Life Unit (eVida), DeustoTech Institute of Technology, University of Deusto, Spain
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: A. Mendez-Zorrilla, DeustoTech-Life Unit (eVida), DeustoTech Institute of Technology, University of Deusto, Avda. Universidades 24, 48007, Bilbao, Spain. E-mail:amaia.mendez@deusto.es
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Socially assistive robotics (SAR) has been a major
field of investigation during the last decade and, as it develops, the
groups the technology can be applied to and all ways in which these can be
assisted are rapidly increasing. OBJECTIVE: The main objective is to design and develop a complete
robotic agent, so that it performs physical and mental activities for
elderly people to maintain their healthy life habits and, as a final result,
improve their quality of life. METHODS: LEGO Mindstorms NXT® robot's unique
capacity for adaptability and engaging its users to develop coaching
activities and assistive rehabilitation for the elderly. Such activities
will aim to enhance healthy habits and provide training in physical and
mental rehabilitation. The robot is attached to an iPod Touch that acts as
its interface. RESULTS: The robot has been tested by a voluntary group of
residents, also from that retirement home. Results in the variables of the
questionnaire show scores above 4 points out of 5 for all the categories. CONCLUSIONS: Based on the tests, an easy to use Robot is prepared
to deliver basic coaching for physical activities as proposed by the client,
the staff of La Misericordia, who confirmed their satisfaction regarding
this aspect.
Keywords: Socially assistive robotics, elderly care, healthcare robotics, social assistance, fall prevention
