Loneliness, affecting millions across Europe, has become an epidemic, with a recent European Commission report revealing that at least one in 10 European Union residents experiences loneliness most of the time. In response to this growing issue, a US-based company, Intuition Robotics, has developed ElliQ, a chatbot device utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) specifically designed to assist elderly individuals dealing with loneliness.
ElliQ, resembling a small table lamp with an eyeless, mouthless head that lights up and swivels, claims to have a positive impact on its users. According to the company, over 90 percent of users report lower levels of loneliness. The device engages in regular conversations, remembering user interests, playing music, telling jokes, and reciting inspirational quotes. It tailors future discussions based on its user's preferences, covering topics from the meaning of life to the latest horoscope readings.
The unique feature of ElliQ is its ability to lead exercises, inquire about the user's health, and provide reminders for medication and hydration. It can also facilitate communication with relatives, friends, or doctors. CEO Dor Skuler emphasized that none of the conversations are heard by the company, ensuring user privacy.
The inspiration for ElliQ arose from Skuler's personal experience when his widowed grandfather needed companionship. Traditional aides fell short, but a replacement understood his grandfather's interests, paving the way for the idea of a companion robot that adapts to seniors' personalities.
Despite the reported success, some experts express reservations. Psychology professor Julianne Holt-Lunstad from Brigham Young University suggests that while ElliQ may offer short-term benefits, it could potentially deter individuals from seeking human contact. She emphasizes that the unpleasant feeling of loneliness should motivate people to reconnect socially, and relying on AI might not fulfill genuine human needs.
With an average user interacting with ElliQ over 30 times daily, the company aims to distribute over 100,000 devices within the next five years. The robots, primarily distributed by assistance agencies, are also available for purchase at $600 (€544) per year, along with a $250 (€226) installation fee. As ElliQ continues to address loneliness in the elderly population, its long-term impact remains a subject of ongoing debate among experts.
