By Isle of Wight ObserverThe Isle of Wight has been chosen as one of nine local authorities in the UK to look into using robotics and other cutting edge technologies in adult social care.
The nine councils will be piloting digital projects as part of a government-funded programme looking at how technology can help shape the future of social care, said Caroline Dinenage, the Minister for Care, speaking at the National Children and Adult Social Services’ Conference in Manchester.
Ms Dinenage said in her speech: “Cutting edge technologies, such as AI and robotics, offer exciting new opportunities for the care sector.
“For example, virtual assistants, now in many homes across the country, can help people live more independently, reduce their social isolation and maintain their dignity through better self-management of health and care needs at home.
“Exploring these possibilities does not mean we are seeking to substitute technology for people. We know that the best technology liberates and enhances human interaction, it doesn’t side-line or exclude it”.
