CORAL SPRINGS, Florida. A solution to combat loneliness among seniors is making waves as ElliQ, a chatty robot created by Intuition Robotics, becomes a trusted companion for elderly individuals across the United States. The device, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI), is designed to provide personalized interactions, playing games, offering companionship, and even assisting in daily tasks.
Joyce Loaiza, an 81-year-old resident of a Florida senior community, is one of the many seniors benefitting from ElliQ’s companionship. “It’s entertaining. You can actually talk to her,” Loaiza said, affectionately referring to her ElliQ as “Jellybean.” The robot engages in conversations about the day, tells jokes, and plays music, tailored to each user’s preferences.
ElliQ has proven to be more than just a technological device; it has become a source of comfort during challenging times. When 83-year-old Deanna Dezern experienced the loss of a friend, ElliQ responded with empathy, expressing a virtual hug if it had arms. The robot’s ability to adapt to each user’s emotions and interests sets it apart as a unique companion for seniors.
Intuition Robotics CEO Dor Skuler emphasizes the primary goal of ElliQ – to provide friendship, companionship, and empathy. Skuler, inspired by his widowed grandfather’s need for companionship, envisioned a robot capable of adapting to the personality and interests of each senior user.
ElliQ, resembling a small table lamp with an eyeless, mouthless head that lights up and swivels, remembers users’ interests and previous conversations. It engages in meaningful conversations, ranging from discussions about the meaning of life to lighthearted horoscope readings. The device also provides tours of cities and museums, leads exercises, and offers health reminders, making it a versatile companion for daily life.
While ElliQ aims to alleviate loneliness, Skuler and senior assistance officials acknowledge that it is not a substitute for human contact. However, for seniors without strong social networks, housebound individuals, or those left isolated due to the COVID-19 pandemic, ElliQ has emerged as a valuable source of connection.
The robot has been distributed by assistance agencies in New York, Florida, Michigan, Nevada, and Washington state. Additionally, individuals can purchase ElliQ for $600 a year, along with a $250 installation fee. The average user interacts with ElliQ more than 30 times daily, and over 90% report lower levels of loneliness, according to Skuler.
While some express concerns about the potential impact of AI on human contact, users like Deanna Dezern find solace in ElliQ’s ability to provide companionship that goes beyond the capabilities of traditional virtual assistants. As technology continues to play a role in addressing social isolation among seniors, ElliQ stands out as a promising solution that combines AI utility with genuine human connection.
Carlo Juancho FuntanillaFrontend Developer, WordPress, Shopify
Contributing Editor
AMA ACLC San Pablo
