AI and robotics to become commonplace in care homes in the UK by 2023

While it might still seem far off and technology associated with science fiction, both artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics will become the norm in the care sector within the next 5 years, according to experts Novacare.

As the ageing population crisis looms, organisations operating in care are increasingly looking for technological developments that will ease the pressure of caring for a growing percentage of the community. It’s an issue that AI and robotics are poised to play a critical role in. While the tech is still being developed, there are a plethora of ways that these two core advancements will provide crucial support to employees within the sector.

Stephen Wilson, Director of Novacare, said, “There’s no doubt that artificial intelligence and robotics are going to shape the future of care. In fact, by 2023 it’ll be technology that’s commonly used throughout the sector in the UK. However, these developments might not be in the way most people think of. Often, when AI and robots are mentioned in relation to care, people picture robots as the primary carer, with the human side of the profession falling to the wayside but this isn’t the case.

“Every way the technology is developing suggests that the opposite will be true. At the moment, care employees face a huge amount of paperwork and routine tasks that eat into their time. AI and robotics aim to relieve some of this strain. Rather than taking time away from care home residents, when used correctly, AI and robotics will allow carers to better focus on peoples’ needs, including social and emotional needs that are often overlooked in the current system.”

Novacare is the forward-thinking business that’s playing a role in developing care related technology, including the use of AI, wearable technology, and big data analytics. It’s pending AI tech aims to provide support to employees that will speed up processes and deliver insightful information to managers. For example, through using the technology, notes that would traditionally be handwritten can be added to a wider database through a portable device, which the AI will then automatically categorise. It’ll make notes for more accessible when they’re needed.

Wilson added, “Technology is already influencing care businesses, and there are those that are pioneering the way. But one of the biggest factors that’s affecting more rapid adoption is the attitude of organisations. Many believe that the investment needed will be out of their budget and that it’ll take many years for them to see a return. This simply isn’t the case, and it’s now our job to show care organisations just how much they could gain by embedding robotics and AI into their business model.”

To find out more visit nova-care.uk/.