Robotics for the Elderly

Robotics for the Elderly presents various approaches to use robotics in assisting the elderly population. As the world’s elderly population continues to grow, roboticists have taken the challenge to help an aging society function more efficiently, benefitting the patients, doctors, and overall healthcare system. There is a strong association between the presence of geriatric syndromes, including vision, hearing, and cognitive impairments, and one’s dependency in daily activities. However, functional decline and loss of independence does not need to be an inevitable consequence of aging. Recent lab activities have proven various robotic solutions effective in maximizing the quality of life for older adults. This book analyzes the current state of elderly robotics using scientific feedback, as well as patient and researcher experiences.