An industry targeting Australia’s ageing population is growing, but can AI deliver more humanity in aged care?
Summary
Technology like robots, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence is being developed to help Australia’s ageing population and support carers in aged care homes. These tools aim to improve the lives of older people by reducing loneliness and providing new experiences, but experts say technology should support, not replace, human care.Key Facts
- Professor Wendy Moyle leads a social robotics lab focused on technology that helps older adults live at home or supports carers in aged care.
- A “virtual hospital” using AI and robotics already operates in China.
- Some robotic devices, like patient lifts, cause fear among users due to their size and unfamiliarity.
- Australia faces challenges like workforce shortages in aged care and issues of neglect and abuse.
- In Toowoomba, Queensland, residents at St Vincent’s Care enjoy virtual train trips through the Swiss Alps to reduce boredom and isolation.
- Virtual reality can improve mood, memory, problem solving, and reduce pain and social isolation for older people.
- Companion robots such as “Abi” use AI to recognize faces, emotions, remember conversations, and speak multiple languages.
- Research warns that focusing too much on technology can overlook deeper problems in aged care and may reinforce negative attitudes about ageing.
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