The aged care industry in Australia is evolving, with a growing focus on technology to support an aging population. While artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning have the potential to revolutionize care, there are concerns about the role of humans in this evolving landscape. The question remains: can AI deliver more humanity in aged care?
Prof. Wendy Moyle, director of the social robotics laboratory at Griffith University, believes that technology should support humans, not replace them. She highlights the importance of involving health professionals and end-users in the development process to ensure that inventions are practical and beneficial. An example of a machine that failed to engage users was a device designed to lift people from the floor or bed, which was met with fear and reluctance.
Despite the challenges, there are innovative solutions emerging. Virtual reality (VR) is being used to create immersive experiences, such as the St Vincent's Express in Toowoomba, which takes residents on a simulated train ride through the Swiss Alps. This technology not only entertains but also distracts from pain and loneliness, potentially improving mood, cognition, and memory. Companion robots, like Abi, are designed to recognize faces, understand emotions, and remember conversations in multiple languages, offering a sense of companionship to residents.
Smart devices are also getting smarter, with wearables monitoring health metrics and sensors detecting falls. Electronic wheelchairs and beds with automated features aim to assist residents in their daily routines. While some may view these technologies as dehumanizing, Moyle suggests that they can free up staff time for more meaningful interactions with residents.
However, not everyone is optimistic about the role of AI in aged care. Researchers at the University of Sydney argue that the industry and governments are promoting a false narrative of technological rescue, which distracts from structural issues and reinforces ageism. They suggest that AI should support care practices that include and empower older people and staff, centring their voices and experiences.
Moyle agrees that the human element is crucial. She emphasizes that robots lack emotional responses and that efforts are being made to develop robots with soft skin that can give hugs. The key, according to Moyle, is to strike a balance between technology and human connection, ensuring that the industry evolves in a way that enhances the quality of care for the aging population.
