Understand initiative
About 1,300 elderly people will get robotic “pets,” according to a plan by the United Kingdom's Department of Health.
Millionaire investment
A £1 million project to help fight loneliness, stress and anxiety in old age.
Tests in England
As stated therein daily mail, “Pets” will keep older pensioners in company through trials in Milton Keynes, Luton and Bedfordshire.
What do robots look like?
Like stuffed animals, “dogs” and “cats” are equipped with motors that allow them to move their heads and wag their tails.
Other purposes
The initiative also aims to help older people communicate after stroke, dementia and learning difficulties.
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Another aim of the project is to develop AI facial scanners to detect signs of pain.
Contribution to mental health
Studies have also indicated that having “robot pets” around can reduce neuropsychiatric symptoms such as depression, apathy and anxiety, as shown by research from the University of Plymouth.
See images: Webstory: Older people in UK to get “robot pets”
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