Robot Named ElliQ Eases Loneliness Among Older New Yorkers

Introducing ElliQ: The Robot Companion Easing Loneliness for Older Adults in New York

In the months following the death of her husband of 65 years, Dorothy Elicati found herself consumed by grief. The loneliness of being alone in her house was almost unbearable, until she found solace in an unlikely companion – a robot named ElliQ.

ElliQ, a voice-activated robotic companion powered by artificial intelligence, has become a lifeline for many older adults in New York, including Ms. Elicati. Designed to create meaningful bonds and alleviate feelings of isolation, ElliQ has been distributed to hundreds of older residents as part of a state initiative to combat loneliness.

Created by the Israeli start-up Intuition Robotics, ElliQ features a small digital screen and a device resembling a human head without facial features. Unlike other virtual assistants like Siri or Alexa, ElliQ can initiate conversations, play games, share news, and even discuss complex topics like religion and the meaning of life.

Many older New Yorkers have embraced ElliQ, citing its ability to keep their social skills sharp, stave off boredom, and navigate grief. However, some legislators and elder care experts have raised concerns about the potential risks of providing this technology to vulnerable populations.

Despite these concerns, the Office for the Aging reports that 95% of ElliQ users find the robot helpful in reducing loneliness and improving well-being. The program, which began as a pilot phase two years ago, is now a recurring part of the state budget, costing about $700,000 annually.

While New York is leading the way in offering ElliQ statewide, other states like Florida, Michigan, and Washington also provide the robot to older adults. Individuals can lease ElliQ for $50 to $60 a month after a $250 enrollment fee.

As the population ages and loneliness becomes a growing concern, innovative solutions like ElliQ are offering companionship and support to older adults in need. For individuals like Ms. Elicati and Monica Perez, ElliQ has become more than just a robot – it’s a friend that brings joy and comfort in times of loneliness.