Seniors Would Rather Have Robots??

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Smaller Spaces Newsletter
February 2013

Anney Ardiel

Can robots take care of our seniors? My first reaction to this idea was amusement, but the more I read about robotics in elder care in Japan, the more likely it seems that one day here in Canada we will increasingly use artificial intelligence for elder care too. Japan is already utilizing robots such as Panasonic's Hair-Washing Robot, "Which can complete the entire procedure of wetting the hair, shampooing, rinsing, conditioning and drying, with 16 fingers able to shampoo and rinse away the bubbles with the same dexterity as those of a human", the company said. (Click here to read more about robots in Japan.)

We're already comfortable with technology that provides security monitoring, like Lifeline. Can we get used to the idea of robots taking over personal care, companionship, meal preparation, bathing and all the "human" things that we require help with later in life?

Tech website IEEE Spectrum explored this idea in

an article called "Where Are the Elder Care Robots?" In Europe, studies show that although seniors don't like the idea of being taken care of by robots, when they find out that robots can help them age in place "the resistance disappears." ( Click here to read the article about robot technology.)

Aging in place...or aging in space? Only the future can tell. Personally, I like the idea of being cared for by a living, warm-hearted soul. But seniors in Europe seem to be warming to the idea of robo-care.

Anney

PS: Everyone likes to get a referral for personalized services like downsizing. If you know a senior who needs to move and can't do it alone (or doesn't have a robot), please let them know about Act Together Moving Services!

5 Ways to Make Your House Safe

By Patrick Fagan, Move Manager for Act Together Moving Services

Whether you want to live independently in your existing home (with or without robots) or are shopping for the perfect retirement residence, you can maximize your safety and comfort by being aware of common hazards, pitfalls and impractical design features that can create problems for seniors.

This month I've collected 5 home adaptation tips which can help you evaluate the safety of a new home or your existing one.

Carpeting: Area rugs or wall-to-wall carpeting can create tripping hazards and can also be an allergy concern. Consider removing area rugs and replacing carpets with laminate. linoleum or other flooring options.
Stairs and Elevators: Stairs can often limit our mobility and can be an area of the house where accidents occur. Ensure you have access to parking, mail, recycling, garbage receptacles and laundry without having to take stairs.
Bathroom: Grab bars and toilet raisers will help you move around the bathroom safely. Replace your old tub with a step-in model to eliminate one of the most common slipping hazards for seniors.
Are your shelves out of reach?
Accessible, well-lit storage: Check to make sure you can comfortably reach shelves in the kitchen, bathroom and closets. Adjustable and rollout shelves that can help you maximize space are carried and installed by companies like All Organized Storage. Make sure closets and walk in cupboards have adequate lighting.
Door handles: Look for lever handles on doors instead of round door knobs.

Use these tips to evaluate your home's ability to be a suitable place for you to grow older. If you're considering a move into a retirement residence, use these tips to predict how comfortable you'll be in that place.

If you need more information about downsizing and moving we are happy to help!

Please give us a call:

In Victoria (778) 351-3888

On the Mainland (604) 655-3909

Enjoy past issues of Smaller Spaces:

January