Cutting-edge robot to support elderly care programmes in Tenerife
The cabildo in La Laguna has taken a big step forward in elderly care by introducing a new high-tech robot to help older residents with physical and cognitive activities. The machine uses the latest rehabilitation and monitoring technology, and is being added to the council’s active ageing programme.
The robot was tested for the first time on Friday at the Acaymo Day Centre, the main daytime support facility for older people in the municipality. During this trial session, it worked alongside staff to guide exercises, motivate users and collect useful information to help improve care.
Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez said that robotics and artificial intelligence are becoming increasingly important in social care, offering real benefits for people who need extra support due to age, disability or dependency. He explained that this pilot project is the first of its kind in the Canary Islands and will allow the council to better understand the needs and progress of its participants.
Councillor for Social Welfare, María Cruz, stressed that the robot is not meant to replace staff. Instead, it will support the professional team by speeding up tasks, guiding exercises and monitoring users through its camera and biometric systems. She said the aim is to see how much these new technologies can improve the experience of older residents and whether they can be used in other areas in the future.
The robot can run individual and group therapy sessions focusing on movement, memory, coordination and social interaction. It monitors users in real time, correcting movements and offering encouragement during exercises. It also adapts its instructions depending on the level of support each person needs.
With this new device, La Laguna hopes to modernise its services while keeping personal, human care at the centre of its elderly support programmes.
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