With people living longer than ever before, the big question isn’t just how we extend life, but how we improve quality of life as we age. And surprisingly, part of the answer may come in the form of a robot.
By 2050, more than 2 billion people worldwide will be over 60 years old. That surge presents enormous challenges: from healthcare demands to daily support needs. As mobility and memory decline, everyday tasks—like cooking, taking medication, or simply standing up—can become overwhelming. But what if a friendly, helpful robot could bridge that gap?
At Nottingham Trent University, alongside teams from Sheffield Hallam and Loughborough, researchers are exploring how socially assistive robots—think helpful machines that talk, remind, or even resemble pets—can support older adults in maintaining their independence. In interviews with older adults, including those with disabilities and low incomes, many expressed a willingness to welcome a robot—if it were easy to use, affordable, and felt personal.
These robots can remind users to move around, take medication, or call a friend. They can assist with physical tasks, such as carrying bags or opening jars. Some even make thinking tasks easier. In one study, robots helped older adults complete mental exercises more quickly and with less fatigue—until the robot provided too much information, overwhelming them. The lesson? Design matters.
But concerns remain. Can people afford them? What happens if the robot breaks? Will it collect too much data, or reduce human contact?
The key is designing with older adults, not just for them. That means intuitive controls, respect for privacy, and solutions tailored to real lives.
Done right, robots won’t replace human care—they’ll enhance it. And in the process, they could help millions of people age with dignity, connection, and autonomy.
