3. Problem Scenario

Issue: Loss of functionality due to memory weaknesses (short term/prospective memory loss). Their capability to remember whether they have done a task/if they need to do something may not be remembered by them. Our focus is on people who still CAN do the required activities, but struggle due to these memory weaknesses.

Handling daily activities/Being physically active: Right now, a caregiver comes into the room, talks to the patient (humane factor), and ensures that some form of physical activity is performed by the patient. We want a robot to handle this to alleviate the workload of the caregiver. This needs to make sure the human need of interaction is kept, while helping the patient to stay active. However, the dementia patient also needs to be able to make the choice themselves.

Refusing compliance: The patient may not comply, believing they have already done the activity or that the activity is pointless. This requires the robot to foster a level of trust, or to somehow convince, or to back off. (For this, the robot could learn about each individual patient)

There are other cases, such as changing clothes, go to the shower, eat/drink.