Technology for Seniors Who Won’t Give Up Their Flip Phones

Interested in a home robot assistant for an elderly loved one? Read “You Can Have a Robot for a Roommate,” a June 29,2022 article in PBS’s Next Avenue. Learn why experts are recommending technology or “home robot assistants” for older adults. The article, written by Jeanette Beebe features our SmartCompanion, the latest Alexa powered, voice-activated medical alert, video and audio calling system.

Beebe writes technology can make living alone safer. It serves as a bridge, a way out of the house, connecting to experts at the other side who are there to help.

What is a Home Robot Assistant?

A robot assistant can be any device used for a variety of purposes that utilizes software, the internet or artificial intelligence to automate and help with daily tasks.

Grandma Robot, Robot Pets and Robot Companions

While some companies offer devices that look like robots of yesteryear’s science fiction, others offer “pet robots” that resemble cats, dogs, or birds. Yet, just about any technology that taps into the internet of things, smart speakers and artificial intelligence (AI) is often described as a “robot” or “robotic.”

More than Robot Companionship

Many SmartCompanion users often refer to the system as their new roommate due to the companionship it offers. However, our SmartCompanion is much more than just a robot for companionship. It’s a complete smart system that replaces dated medical alert devices and connects seniors to the internet via Alexa.

It allows seniors to make voice-activated audio and video phone calls. The SmartCompanion is pre-programmed and customized for each user and comes ready to go. It reminds users of appointments, to take pills, turn of the stove or lock the door. It’s also fun. It can tell you jokes, play music, or tell stories. It’s useful. You can ask the SmartCompanion any question, get news or sports info. Forgetful users can repeatedly ask the Companion the same question and get an answer without judgement or an irritated tone.

SmartCompanion Care is affiliated with Veterans Home Care and offers the identical system branded as the VetAssist Companion to those who qualify for VA benefits. Certain wartime veterans or their surviving spouses can receive the VetAssist Companion system with no out-of-pocket costs due to their qualifying military service.

Watch the SmartCompanion Video

Watch the video to see how SmartCompanion can improve the safety and well-being of an aging loved one.

Addressing Privacy Issues with Home Robot Assistants

The Next Avenue article addresses privacy concerns and says not all technology is equally safe and secure. Location-tracking, voice recording and other data may be vulnerable to being stolen by hackers and sold on the dark web. Still, many families say that these issues pale in comparison to the potential benefits.

David Laiderman, CEO of SmartCompanion Care says that his SmartCompanion system, which uses military-grade encryption, fully complies with HIPAA, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, and comes with a privacy-protection guarantee.

SmartCompanion User Reviews

Companion user Bonita Hoyle was quoted on how the system saved her life. Unlike Alexa devices bought off the shelf, her system was pre-programmed in order for her to summon emergency responders. Erika Hilliard was quoted on how VetAssist Companion made life easier, not just for her mother but for her whole family.

SmartCompanion also featured in Market Watch & Money Senator

Similar versions of Beebe’s robot companion story were published in Market Watch, Can a robot roommate help you care for your aging parent? and Money Senator, Can a robotic roommate assist you take care of your getting older dad and mum?

About Author Jeanette Beebe

Jeanette Beebe is an independent, data-driven journalist whose reporting has appeared in Consumer Reports, TIME, The Daily Beast, NPR, Scientific American, Fast Company and elsewhere. She was also a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Reporting.

How to Get A SmartCompanion or VetAssist Companion System

Families whose loved ones may qualify for VA benefits to cover the cost of the VetAssist Companion system can contact Veterans Home Care at 888-314-6075 or info@veteranshomecare.com
Others who are not eligible for VA benes can purchase a SmartCompanion by emailing info@smartcompanion.care or calling 855-488-1081.