Over the past few decades, Japan has witnessed a steady rise in the adoption of robots in nursing homes. Initially introduced to assist with routine tasks such as lifting patients or dispensing medication, these robots have evolved to encompass a wide range of functions, from providing companionship and entertainment to monitoring vital signs and facilitating communication with healthcare professionals.

The evolution of robots in nursing homes can be attributed to advancements in AI, robotics, and sensor technologies. These developments have enabled robots to become increasingly autonomous, intuitive, and capable of adapting to the diverse needs of elderly residents. Moreover, ongoing research and innovation continue to expand the potential applications of robots in healthcare, from assisting with rehabilitation exercises to supporting individuals with cognitive impairments. Recently, the Japanese government has been actively developing robots for nursing care. They have created a platform to design, showcase, and implement these robots in response to inquiries from nursing care facilities.

Despite these efforts, the adoption of robotic technology in nursing care services is not widespread due to concerns and resistance from users, considering the principles of nursing care service. Ideally, a nursing care robot system should support various functions and operations. To address the shortage of nursing care workforce effectively, itis crucial to make nursing care tasks more fulfilling through the use of these robots. This means providing services that reduce mental and physical strain and contribute to the life purpose of the care receiver. Therefore, it’s essential to offer nursing care services that are evidence-based, scientific, and effective.

However, the Japanese government has allocated funds towards the advancement of elder care robots, aiming to address an anticipated deficit of 380,000 specialized personnel by 2025. Looking ahead, the future of robots in nursing homes in Japan appears promising. As the population continues to age and the demand for elderly care services grows, robots are set to play an even more integral role in addressing the evolving needs of seniors.