Robot Charlie: How technology revolutionizes life in nursing homes!

Robot Charlie: How technology revolutionizes life in nursing homes!

As part of the Robust research project, the innovative use of humanoid robots in care facilities is examined. The aim of the project, which is promoted by a consortium under the direction of the association of the replacement health insurers ( vdek ), is the development of robotics-based support measures for prevention and health promotion in inpatient care facilities. Robust stands for "robotics-based support of prevention and health promotion in inpatient care facilities" and involves partners such as the Kiel University of Applied Sciences, the Society for Digitized and Sustainable Cooperation (DNZ) as well as several care facilities of the Diakonie and the non-profit company of Franciscan women to Olpe.

The project began with the development of operational scenarios for the humanoid robot "Charlie", which was integrated into the care facilities three times a week. First of all, the supervisors had to overcome fear of contact, but they succeeded quickly. Residents reacted extremely positively to the interactions with Charlie, who motivated them to exercise exercises and asked quiz questions. This targeted promotion of mental and physical activities is shown in a long -term examination over three years, which includes interviews, group discussions and observations.

The potential of humanid robots in care

A current quantitative examination in the context of robust demonstrated the health -promoting effects of robot use. Many residents reported a reduced feeling of loneliness, increased movement and the fun of the interactions with the robot. "Charlie" has now become an integral part of the weekly planning in the Travetal care center. The center also plans to use the robot in four other care facilities in Lübeck.

Another central aspect of the project is the use of the humanoid robot Pepper as a socio-technical system, which is also tried out in various interventions and applications. These new applications are developed and evaluated in dialogue with the actors involved to ensure that they are available to the target groups sustainably. The main target group not only includes people in need of care, but also their relatives, nursing staff and external therapeutic specialists.

interdisciplinary collaboration and future prospects

The previous results show that the developed interventions for health promotion in nursing are not only limited to the specific facilities, but can also be transferred to other care facilities. Standards are established in practice to promote the sustainable use of these interventions. The challenges that arise with the integration of different perspectives and working methods are carefully observed, as are the ethical guidelines and data protection.

Professor Gaby Lenz from the Kiel University of Applied Sciences emphasizes that the use of humanoid robots in nursing homes not only improves the mental and physical health of the residents, but also helps employees to perform their tasks more efficiently. The Robust project is finally summarized in a report that is published online in order to provide other institutions with valuable knowledge and further promote the use of robotics in care.