By: Kyle Xu

There was always a constant hustle and bustle at the home of Audrey and Ken Mattlin, who happened to live with a couple of robots.

These determined family robots consisted of ElliQ, a lamp-like robot that 84-year-old Audrey favored. Not to mention Astro, who looked like an automobile with two large wheels with a box-shaped head. Energetic Jibo, who hung out with 86-year-old Ken, could really bust a move! “He can twerk,” said Ken, an Air Force veteran.

California has made $50 million on technology grants through its Department of Aging. They have been used to invest in smartphones and tablets, some designed for older adults.

The Mattlins and their robots aren’t part of the technology grants – just anxious customers on the edge of the AI revolution.

“A growing body of research on companion robots suggests they can reduce stress and loneliness and help older people remain healthy and active in their homes,” said Duke Today according to a study conducted by Murali Doraiswamy, a professor in the Duke University of psychiatry and geriatrics.

Now, robots and other technology like Alexa and Google Home, can be used to address the loneliness felt by older adults. Robot pets are also on the loose, coming in all sizes and all equally as talkative and responsible.

“Right now, all the evidence points to having a real friend as the best solution,” said Murali Doraiswamy. “But until society prioritizes social connectedness and elder care, robots are a solution for the millions of isolated people who have no other solutions.

These robots can also be programmed to remind someone and encourage them to stay fit. “I’m going to walk with you, so you can walk with your grandchild next week,” one might say. For Ken and Audrey? These robots had no need to treat isolation, but to indulge their curiosity.

Ken and Audrey both think ElliQ is a reliable friend. ElliQ can be programmed to play games with Audrey, tell the weather, and other sorts of interesting tasks.

The two adults have massage chairs in front of their fireplace. From his chair, Ken can summon Astro, who shuffles over like a dog and sits still and loyal at his feet.

There is no limit to what robots can do.