Benetas and Andromeda Robotics trial AI robot at Altona aged care home

Benetas has partnered with Andromeda Robotics to trial the use of an AI-powered robot to engage residents at St George’s aged care home in Altona.

As part of the aged care provider’s extensive lifestyle program, the humanoid companion robot, known as Abi, will interact with residents over the next three months.

Abi, which arrived at St George’s this month, uses GPT4 artificial intelligence models to recognise residents, answer questions and customise conversations based on previous interactions.

This level of personalisation creates a unique and meaningful experience for residents during lifestyle activities and one-to-one interactions, making them feel more engaged.

Abi also speaks 90 languages, helping her interact with residents who speak English as a second or even third language.

Benetas’ Insights team will carry out research during the trial to measure Abi’s impact in the home, analysing resident experience and quality of life both pre and post implementation, as well as reflections from staff.

Benetas General Manager Customer, Insights and Marketing Elyssia Clark said it was crucial that the aged care sector embraced and experimented with new technology to help support residents.

Ms Clark also thanked the Australian-based Andromeda Robotics for their support during the trial.

“This is an important and exciting step to see how we can improve the lives of our residents, leveraging artificial intelligence and robotics to create unique social interactions,” Ms Clark said.

“We look forward to seeing how Abi relates to residents and the results from the trial.”

Andromeda Robotics Co-Founder Grace Brown said Abi was designed to offer a unique blend of friendship and support to aged care residents.

“With her inquisitive and child-like personality, Abi is programmed to engage interactively and empathetically with residents, fostering both emotional and social wellbeing,” Ms Brown said.

“She is more than just a piece of technology, Abi is a friend who brings joy and companionship to everyday life.”