Nursing,Assisted-Living Centers Jurn to Robotic Devices for Elderly care

摘要

For many of the Alzheimer's and dementia patients of the Vincen-tian Home in McCandless Township, Pa., the best part of their day begins when Rudy, Leo or Lily come to visit. With their soft white fur, assuring coos and large bright eyes, the trio brings a sense of tranquility, enjoyment and socialization to the residents of this nursing center near Pittsburgh.rnRudy, Leo and Lily are not dogs, cats or even live animals. They are interactive robots fashioned to look, sound and feel like baby harp seals and designed to stimulate patients with various cognitive disorders. Presently, about 40 nursing homes across the United States use the Paro robots developed by AIST, a leading Japanese industrial automation pioneer.