Could robots with the ability to perform everyday personal and household tasks help meet some of those needs? Robots have some distinct advantages, robot designer Rich Walker told RNZ from London - but there's some challenges and hurdles to overcome, and some big ethical considerations. Photo: Charles GervaisIn Japan, robots have been used in aged care facilities for more than a decade. Some areas of human capability and some tasks are particularly difficult for robots - controlled and measured touch is at the top of the list. Designs to meet real needsWhen parsing out the needs of aged care there have also been some big surprises, Walker says.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 20, 2025 20:16 UTC