New Israeli-made robot provides help and comfort to the elderly

Five years in development, Intuition Robotics launches ElliQ - a robot intended to help senior citizens fight loneliness. It’s now on sale in southern Florida

AFTER YEARS OF development, testing, pivots and counter-pivots in its business strategy, Israel’s Intuition Robotics last week launched a home robot that acts a personal aide and companion for the elderly. Dubbed ElliQ, it can now be purchased in the United States through the company’s website (specifically for customers in South Florida).

ElliQ is a tablet connected to a lamp-shaped robot that can help older adults in simple daily tasks, but its main job is to alleviate loneliness. The robot not only knows how to answer questions but how to start a conversation.

It can play music, recommend exercises and offer health advice. It can arrange a trip to a pharmacy or hospital for the user through Uber Health. The price is a one-time payment of $US250 for the device and a monthly subscription fee of $US30.

“After years of hard work, this day has finally come,” CEO Dor Skuler wrote on the company’s website.  “Now, we are happy to make ElliQ widely available to any senior who desires a friendly sidekick who empowers them to maintain their indepen

FULL STORY Israeli-made robot providing elderly assistance is launched (Haaretz)

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Photo: ElliQ, the robot, is now on sale in southern Florida (courtesy Intuition Robotics)