Starting the conversation

Residents and visitors at a care home are trialling a conversational robot which could be used to help tackle loneliness. The AI-powered humanoid machine has been programmed with information about the local area and its history to help it chat with people while making them a cup of tea. It can also give updates on activities happening at the complex in the north east of England to encourage people to take part and socialise with each other.

The machine has been loaned to North Star Housing’s Aspen Gardens home by The National Robotarium and will help researchers learn more about how humans interact with robots. The robot, called Furhat, was installed in the home’s bistro area and takes food orders and prepares hot drinks as well as having conversations. Resident Fred Connor, 87, said: “It’s the first time I’ve ever seen anything like it but we have to embrace change so it’ll be interesting to see how he gets on.”

Lisa Farrell, Business Development Manager at The National Robotarium, added: “By placing conversational robots in communities like Aspen Gardens, we’re not just conducting research – we’re advancing our understanding of how AI and robotics can genuinely improve quality of life while addressing pressing challenges in the care sector. This project represents a critical step in The National Robotarium’s mission to create people-centred, intelligence-driven robotic solutions that can be widely deployed.”