Robots are predictable. They do exactly what they are programmed to do. This means they can sometimes reach people who have difficulty communicating with other human beings, including autistic children and elderly people with dementia.
The cuddly robot seal Paro listens, watches and responds with movement and sounds. He is very popular with the residents of a home for pensioners with dementia in Amsterdam.
Another little robot, Nao, which is being used with autistic children, can show emotions and interact in a non-threatening way.
The robots are expensive but effective. They will soon be used on a larger scale in public healthcare, not as a replacement for nursing staff but as an extra resource.
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Some comfort! But they cannot replicate human warmth and affection that comes from a real warm hug.
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