La Trobe University is trialling two new robots that will provide support to the elderly in their homes and nursing facilities.
The robots – one female and one male – join La Trobe’s existing robots, Matilda and Jack. The have spent the past 80 days travelling around the world receiving modifications.
The robots will be housed at the Research Centre for Computers, Communication and Social Innovation (RECCSI), which carries out research into aged care and human resource management with ‘emotionally intelligent robots’.
“The robots can read human emotions by analysing facial features and body language and are wirelessly programmed to notify nurses if an elderly patient is distressed, injured or requires help,” La Trobe University said in a statement.
They will also remind the elderly about daily activities and medication and help them stay in touch with friends and family.
La Trobe University is looking for names for the robots and are seeking people to meet them to help broaden their human communication skills.
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