Robo M.D.: a home care robot for monitoring and detection of critical situations

Abstract

Motivation -- The use of a Home Care Robot combined with a sensor network could possibly improve or replace current home Tele-healthcare systems that monitor elderly people or other people with health problems. Using robot for this is a new and we want to find out what the advantages or disadvantages could be. Research approach -- By using non-invasive wireless sensors the health of the person can be monitored. In case of a possible problem, like when the person has fallen, a robot can autonomously go to the person and ask or check whether help from care-providers would be needed. This check could avoid many false alarms. The robot can call a care-provider by itself. The control of the robot can also be taken over by a care-provider to enable telepresence. By communicating with the person though the robot and seeing through the camera of the robot, the care-provider can then better evaluate the situation and help remotely or send help directly. Findings/Design -- The sensors, the robot and the interaction will be designed and evaluated by doing user-tests. Privacy-issues will be investigated too. Take away message -- The use of such a Home Care Robot can be very cost-effective because it enables people to live longer in their own home, it can prevent many false alarms for the care-provider and compared to systems that need cameras everywhere it can offer more privacy.