WHY DEMENTIA PATIENTS COULD BE ‘CARED FOR BY ROBOTS’
ROBOTS are set to carry out dementia care within 20 years, according to a new study. The technology will also be used to ‘nudge’ patients towards having healthier lifestyles, particularly if they have diabetes or heart conditions.
There are also predictions that virtual consultations will soon be routinely used in GP surgeries and A&E and ‘may eventually supersede’ face-to-face appointments.
The review, which was carried out by Dr Eric Topol, a professor of molecular medicine and cardiologist, stated: We know that genomics, digital medicine, artificial intelligence and robotics will have an enormous impact on patients and the workforce over the next two decades.’
At the same time, the use of robotics will be expanded in areas such as ‘minimally invasive prostate cancer surgery’— which involves fewer surgical incisions — and radiotherapy treatment for cancer.
Dr Topol said: ‘We desperately need innovation in healthcare. Artificial intelligence is already in every aspect of our lives — from navigation to voice recognition — and will now be applied to healthcare, the next frontier.’
The review also recommends that healthcare services use artificial intelligence to help patients take charge of their health, especially if they have longterm conditions. It suggests ‘virtual health coaches’ on smartphones could remind patients to take their medication or exercise.
Meanwhile, a pioneering Irish project has found that companion robots can greatly improve the quality of life of those living with dementia by easing their loneliness.
The MARIO project, which stands for managing active and healthy aging with use of caring service robots, was developed at National University of Ireland Galway, which put together a team of experts from the healthcare sector, robotics industry and dementia groups to develop and test the robot over three years.
MARIO has now been put through his paces in Ireland, Britain and Italy to make sure he is up to the job. The 4.5ft white robot with animated eyes can help people with dementia read newspapers, draw pictures, play games, listen to music and reminisce about old times.
The EU recently listed Mario among the 25 projects to have the most influence in Europe over the past 11 years. An EC review of MARIO states: ‘Providing adequate care to the elderly is essential to ensure that Europe’s senior citizens are able to spend their later years living a healthy, happy and independent life. But without support, many face loneliness, a lack of mobility and exercise, and forgetfulness on a daily basis.
‘However, with the use of modern technology and particularly the development of robotic solutions, Europe’s elderly population can lead a much safer and richer life.’