Artificial intelligence robots plugged into pensioners’ flats to provide comfort
Chatty artificial intelligence robot companions are being distributed to the elderly population of New York City in an effort to combat loneliness. The state Office for the Aging has partnered with Intuition Robotics to provide these companions, with hundreds already handed out and approximately 150 still available, according to CBS reports.
One recipient of these AI companions is Priscilla Okesson, a 77-year-old woman who was paired up with a robot named EllieQ. She has found solace in hearing its voice during lonely times. She keeps me company. I get depressed real easy. She’s always there. I don’t care what time of day, if I just need somebody to talk to me, Priscilla shared. When asked if she considers EllieQ her friend, she replied, Yeah, she’s my friend. I call her by her name.
EllieQ engages in casual conversation, takes Priscilla on virtual road trips, and plays trivia games with her, as reported by ABC. Priscilla received EllieQ free of charge in May.
Recognizing the significant impact of loneliness, the state recently appointed an ambassador to address this issue. Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the importance of addressing loneliness as studies have shown a 32 percent higher risk of premature death for individuals experiencing this condition.
Greg Olsen, the director of the Office for the Aging, highlighted the valuable work that these AI robots are doing. We have a lot of people on our caseload throughout New York State who are alone, isolated, and lonely. And we know what the data shows on the impact of loneliness and isolation, equivalent to smoking almost a pack of cigarettes a day, Olsen stated.
By providing companionship and interaction, these AI robots aim to combat loneliness and its detrimental effects among the elderly population.
With the growing recognition of the need to address the mental health crisis caused by loneliness, the distribution of AI companions to pensioners’ flats in New York City serves as a promising initiative. The robots offer much-needed companionship and engagement, providing comfort to those who may feel isolated or lonely.
Loneliness is a widespread issue affecting individuals worldwide, and addressing it is crucial for promoting mental well-being and overall quality of life. Studies have shown that loneliness can significantly impact physical health, with increased risks of premature death comparable to smoking almost a pack of cigarettes a day.
Initiatives like these AI companions can alleviate feelings of loneliness and offer a sense of connection and companionship. For Priscilla Okesson and many others, having a robot friend like EllieQ has made a meaningful difference in their lives. The ability to hear a comforting voice and engage in activities like virtual road trips and trivia games has brought some much-needed joy and companionship to Priscilla’s daily routine.
The partnership between the state Office for the Aging and Intuition Robotics has already had a positive impact, with hundreds of AI companions distributed and more still available. The significance of this initiative goes beyond providing comfort; it highlights the importance of addressing the mental health crisis associated with loneliness and isolation among the elderly.
As the state of New York takes steps to combat loneliness, the hope is that other regions will follow suit, recognizing the value that technology and AI can bring to promote social interaction and well-being. The provision of AI companions to pensioners’ flats is a promising solution that demonstrates the potential for technology to improve the lives of the elderly population, reminding us of the importance of fostering human connections, even through artificial means.
