1. Social Robot

Version 4.1 by William OGrady on 2024/03/25 10:45

 

The selection of Nao for assisting subjects with early-stage dementia is particularly strategic due to its unique features. Nao's humanoid design and customizable interactions enable it to present a familiar and comforting presence, which can significantly aid subjects in recalling past memories, relationships, and occupations. Its advanced communication capabilities allow Nao to engage subjects in meaningful conversations, effectively reminding them of their personal history and maintaining their cognitive functions. Moreover, Nao's proven track record in therapeutic settings ensures safety and accessibility, making it an ideal companion for subjects as they navigate the challenges of dementia. This focused approach on memory stimulation and personal history is crucial for enhancing the quality of life of subjects with dementia.

Criteria

NaoMiRo-EPepper
DesignHumanoid, more relatableAnimal-like, less human-relatableHumanoid but less expressive
CustomizabilityHighly customizable interactionsLimited compared to humanoid robotsLess customizable than Nao
Communication CapabilitiesAdvanced: natural language processing, speech recognitionBasic compared to NaoAdvanced but less focused on personal interaction
R&D SupportStrong community, continuous improvementsEmerging, less establishedSupported but less healthcare-focused
Track RecordProven in educational and therapeutic settingsLess proven in diverse settingsUsed in customer service, less in therapy
Safety and AccessibilityDesigned with safety, accessible size and mobilitySafe but less interactive for cognitive tasksSafe but larger and less accessible