Current status and future prospects for robotic technology in health care delivery

The main reason for using robotic technology to assist functionally limited individuals is that it could enable them to have increased control of their own lives. Evaluation of one prototype voice-controlled robotic aid has shown the feasibility of robotic-assisted tasks in four areas: activities of daily living, vocation, recreation, and physical therapy. Creation of a product, however, will require careful investigation of utility and potential marketability issues (such as safety and training) that will determine the acceptance of robotic technology in health and human service applications.