Barcelona sends 600 companion robots into older residents' homes

Barcelona has deployed 600 companion robots to private homes and care centres under a €3.8 million EU-funded pilot to support older people, including those in early cognitive decline; devices provide reminders, entertainment and a link to social workers.

Barcelona has placed 600 companion robots in private homes and care centres as part of a pilot programme. The devices arrived from November under a scheme described by a municipal councillor as an effort to improve tele-assistance for people in the early stages of cognitive decline. The project is funded by a €3.8 million European Union COVID recovery grant and uses robots manufactured by Misty Robotics and distributed in Europe by Catalan firm Grup Saltó. Spain faces an ageing population and a growing demand for long-term care, which is a key reason the city launched the pilot. Key details: - 600 robots have been deployed to private homes and care centres in Barcelona as part of the pilot. - The programme received a €3.8 million EU COVID recovery grant; devices are made by Misty Robotics and distributed by Grup Saltó. - Robots offer medication reminders, appointment alerts, wake-up calls, entertainment apps and a screen with selectable cartoon-like expressions. - Devices can connect users to social workers and include a camera that can be activated remotely to assess situations in an emergency. - Officials say the pilot aims to improve tele-assistance and plans for future capability to detect risks, such as falls, and alert professionals. - Nearly 2 million people over 65 live alone in Spain; studies cited say the long-term care workforce will need to expand substantially by 2030 and recruitment is affected by lower pay, according to think-tank Funcas. Summary: The pilot is presented as a way to provide daily support, companionship and a remote link to social services for older residents while public services face growing demand. Officials say future work will focus on adding automated risk detection and alerting professionals.