People are living longer lives as a result of massive advances in healthcare and lifestyle over the last century. While modern-day longevity is an important achievement, it does pose challenges in terms of caring for an increasingly elderly population.
Care of elderly is a supply and demand problem. As the elderly population grows, the number of caregivers does not increase in lockstep. The relative scarcity of people capable of caring for the elderly is what drives up the costs of elderly care and creates a burden. The development and adoption of elder care robots is one solution to this supply and demand problem.
The Importance of Robots in Elder Care
Using medical robots for elder care at home will drastically reduce the current costs of elderly care. Furthermore, as the ratio of elderly to non-elderly people shifts, it will pick up the slack regarding the number of caregivers available.
Medical robots are a rapidly expanding industry. Medical robotics can assist the elderly in a variety of ways. Robots can perform small tasks such as fetching food and water. Some elder care robots address social and emotional needs by providing entertainment through games, reminding them of events and appointments, and engaging them in social activities. Other eldercare robots take a more direct, muscular approach and use powerful hydraulics to help provide mobility and transportation support to seniors.
Dementia Care and Robots
Given the large number of people who have dementia or care for someone who has dementia, robotic support for caregivers is critical. One specific application of robotics to dementia care is the treatment of "sundowners syndrome," a poorly understood condition in which dementia patients become increasingly agitated and anxious as late afternoon turns to even. Pet-style robots can help patients suffering from dementia improve their mood and reduce the effects of sundowner's syndrome.
As medical robotics technology advances, the applications of robots for elder care home services and senior care facilities to improve the quality of life for seniors and their caregivers will grow.
Disclaimer: Healthy Wrinkles does not recommend or offer any medical diagnosis, treatment, or advice. The information provided here is only for the awareness of disease or ailment among individuals, caregivers, and the public. The advice of doctors, licensed professionals, or therapists who are knowledgeable about your particular situation should always be sought before using the information provided here. It should also not be used in the event of a medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. If you want urgent assistance, contact a qualified medical professional. Additionally, the information represents the author's views and not those of Healthy Wrinkles.
