Robots have been adopted into the care services at Lutheran Homes Barossa, giving staff more time to spend with their residents.
Minister for Human Services, and Seniors and Ageing Well Nat Cook MP, Minister for Health and Wellbeing Chris Picton MP and Labor Duty Member for Schubert and State Member for Light, Tony Piccolo MP, were all invited for a tour of the facility by Lutheran Homes Barossa Chief Executive Officer Lee Martin on Friday.
Robots within the facility undertake a range of tasks including transport of equipment, supplies and materials (linen, waste, meals), automated cleaning of rooms and spaces, and general manual handling tasks.
Some robots are also equipped with emotional support and Artificial Intelligence (AI), with one of the robots introducing guests and leading the tour of the facilities.
Mr Piccolo was pleased to see these technological advancements are making their way into our region to not only increase efficiency, but also improve care.
“Human touch and emotion are so important, particularly in the care industry, but robotics and AI technology can be used in a way to assist with routine and procedural tasks,” said Mr Piccolo.
“The less stress and work for staff allows them more time to give proper care and time to residents rather than rush through tasks and tick boxes.
“This technology continues to progress throughout the world as more and more industries are taking advantage of these resources available to find ways to improve the services and products they provide – innovation and adaptability is how businesses survive and thrive.”
Since the introduction of the robots, the aged care and retirement living provider has reported a reduction in staff injuries, eight hours saved each day in moving service trollies and cleaning and a reduction in touch points, resulting in improved infection control.
Minister Cook said “it was fantastic to see the robots functioning”, and “can see further prospects for what the technology can provide beyond the practical delivery and cleaning modules.”
“With all the workforce challenge that we’re facing currently and in the future, we can do better by embracing it and harnessing these innovative technologies that are available,” said Minister Cook.
"Beyond the everyday tasks, the robots can also provide support for people who potentially have barriers with engaging with actual humans, so it may help in terms of a learning process for people with disability as well as those in dementia units.”
Lutheran Homes Barossa CEO Lee Martin expressed enthusiasm about this innovative leap in aged care.
“We are excited to introduce our world leading robotics technology,” said Mr Lee.
“We are focused on delivering an enhanced service, developing our site as a centre of excellence using AI and technological improvements to provide not just care, but security and improved companionship, enhancing the overall well-being of our senior community."