Helping an aging society: how AI and robotics herald a better future for elderly care

According to Financial Times analysts, the problem of Asia's aging population can be solved by combining robots and artificial intelligence (AI). Japan and China are struggling to deal with the problem of aging populations. About a third of Japan's population is over 65. According to China's official report, the elderly population is expected to increase from 280 million to 400 million by 2035.

Given these demographic changes, AI and machines can address labor shortages in healthcare and senior care. The FT reports that China currently has a shortage of more than 10 million health workers.
Healthcare providers can use generative AI capabilities to improve remote diagnostic services. Market.us estimates that implementing virtual consulting services could save the industry approximately $20 billion annually.

Chinese technology company iFlytek, a leader in voice recognition and synthesis, is expanding its horizons with the launch of a robot specifically designed for the elderly care sector. Baidu, a popular Chinese search engine, is focusing on developing tools and apps to monitor the health of the elderly with a new initiative.

According to projections by the Population Division of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA), the demographic shift towards an older population is clear. The population of people aged 65 and over is projected to increase from 703 million to 1.5 billion in 2050. By then, 6 out of 6 people in the world will be over 65 years old.

However, AI-based systems can help older adults live independently by performing daily tasks, monitoring their health, and alerting them in case of an emergency. Another study found that loneliness in older adults could be addressed through artificial intelligence programs such as Circle of Friends while helping caregivers understand and manage stress.

Artificial intelligence in wearable devices can improve health care for older adults by analyzing data, identifying disease symptoms, recommending personalized treatments, and improving access to care through telehealth platforms. Robotics can also provide physical and emotional support to the elderly through assistive robots that promote mobility and social robots that promote companionship. Artificial intelligence technology can help geriatric rehabilitation by reducing the workload of medical staff, providing direct care, and promoting social interaction.