The integration of technology into senior care has seen a remarkable boost in recent years. One of the most innovative solutions is the use of mobile telepresence robots. These robots, often simply referred to as "mobile telepresence", are changing the way we approach aged care, offering a blend of technology and human touch. In this article, we'll delve into how mobile telepresence robots are being utilised in senior care, the benefits they bring, and the research that supports their efficacy.

What is Mobile Telepresence?

A Short Explainer

Mobile telepresence is a technology that combines robotics with video conferencing tools. These robots are equipped with cameras, screens, and speakers, allowing users to interact in real-time with their surroundings, even if they are miles away. Essentially, they act as a virtual presence, bridging the gap between physical distance and personal connection.

Positive Effects on Older Adults

According to a study by Majid Shishehgar et al. 2019, in the Health Informatics Journal, robotic technologies, especially companion and telepresence robots, have shown positive effects in assisting older adults. However, there's a need for more research to develop robots that can support the elderly in maintaining an independent lifestyle.

Enhancing Independent Living

Other studies show that assistive robots can address the personal mobility needs of older individuals, influencing various aspects of their daily life (L. Fiorini et al., 2019, Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology).

Insights on Mobile Telepresence in Senior Care

The Evolution of Mobile Telepresence in Healthcare

While mobile telepresence has applications in various sectors, its integration into healthcare, particularly senior care, has been exciting. Initial uses included doctor-to-patient consultations, for instance, you could have geriatric specialist in Hobart consulting with a patient in Launceston without either of them having to travel. But the potential in healthcare goes further.

Allied Health Services and Reducing Clinic Visits

For elderly patients who may have mobility challenges or reside in distant locations, mobile telepresence eliminates the need for frequent physical visits, making therapy more accessible. If an elderly resident needs to consult with an occupational therapist, they can do so without leaving the comfort of their home. Therapists can remotely assess, guide, and monitor their patients real-time.

Enhancing Social Connections

One of the primary uses of mobile telepresence robots in senior care is to foster social connections. Elderly individuals, especially those in care homes, often feel isolated. Mobile telepresence allows family members to virtually visit their loved ones, navigating the robot around the facility and interacting as if they were physically present.

Mobile Telepresence in Home Care Settings

A New Frontier for Elderly Care at Home

As per a study by P. Boissy et al., 2007, Journal of Telemedicine and Telecare, the shift from traditional residential care to home-based models in geriatrics presents opportunities for using mobile telepresence robots in home care.

Imagine the Future Benefits in Home Care

1. Safety Monitoring: Mobile telepresence robots can be used to monitor the safety of seniors living alone. They can be programmed to detect falls or unusual activity patterns and alert caregivers or medical professionals.

Example: Mrs Jenkins, living alone in Liverpool, has a fall in her living room. The mobile telepresence robot detects the fall and immediately alerts her daughter in Brisbane.

2. Medication Reminders: With integrated AI, these robots could remind seniors to take their medications on time, ensuring adherence to medical regimens.

Example: Mr Yao, who often forgets his diabetes medication, can rely on his mobile telepresence robot for timely reminders.

3. Social Interaction: For seniors living alone, these robots can provide a source of social interaction, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Example: Mr Obaniak, a war veteran in Perth, uses his robot to connect to his grandkids over East, bridging the gap in generations and distance.

The Benefits of Mobile Telepresence in Senior Care

Improved Mental Wellbeing

Isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression among the elderly. Regular interactions via mobile telepresence can significantly improve their mental wellbeing, providing seniors with a sense of connection and belonging.

Enhanced Medical Response

With immediate access for medical checks through mobile telepresence, elderly patients – particularly in underserved regions - receive faster and more cost-efficient medical care. This timely intervention can be crucial in avoiding emergencies.

Empowering the Elderly

Mobile telepresence gives the elderly a sense of control and independence. They can decide when to interact, participate in activities, or consult with their doctors, all from the comfort of their space.

Addressing Challenges in Aged Care Use Cases

Challenges in Home Care

Marketta Niemelä et al., 2019, International Journal of Social Robotics noted numerous benefits around increasing socialisation by integrating mobile telepresence robots into home settings, it also comes with challenges. There's the need to ensure that the home environment is suitable for robot navigation, and that concerns about privacy and data security are resolved.

Ensuring User-Friendly Technology

Another challenge is ensuring that the technology remains user-friendly for the elderly. As X. Wu et al. pointed out in their study, there's a need for improving the usability of telepresence robots, especially for older adults with mobility impairments.

General Positive Reception

Despite evidence for some concerns, several studies have found that telepresence robots are viewed positively by patients, families, and healthcare workers in various settings, including critical care and residential care J. Sucher et al., 2011, American journal of surgery.

The Future of Mobile Telepresence in Aged Care

Mobile telepresence robots, combining robotics with video conferencing, have emerged as a trusted solution in senior care. Their applications range from enhancing social connections, especially for isolated elderly individuals, to facilitating medical consultations without the need for physical travel.

Research Leads the Way Forward

Research has highlighted their positive effects on older adults, with potential benefits like improved mental wellbeing, enhanced medical care, and empowerment of the elderly. However, challenges such as privacy concerns and the need for user-friendly designs persist.

The Future is Now!

As technology continues to evolve, the scope of mobile telepresence in senior care is bound to grow. The integration of AI could further enhance their capabilities, allowing them to assist with daily tasks, provide timely medication reminders, and even detect emergencies like falls.

Where to Next?

The future of mobile telepresence in aged care is promising, but it's essential to address the challenges head-on. By focusing on user-friendly designs, ensuring privacy, and integrating feedback from the elderly and their caregivers, mobile telepresence can truly revolutionise senior care.

In conclusion, mobile telepresence robots are an innovative solution for senior care, offering a blend of technology and human touch. As we move forward, it's clear that these robots will play an integral role in shaping the future of aged care, making it more efficient, personal, connected and cost effective. The research supports their efficacy, and with continued advancements, their impact will only grow.

About Robots4Good

As a leading provider of robots as a service, Robots4Good is the exclusive supplier of OhmniLabs services and robots in Australia and New Zealand for business, manufacturing, schools, hospitals, disability and aged care settings.