Sensing and robotic system for supporting serious disabled

Due to the rapid increase of the population of elderly people, many countries have serious social problems. Technical approach is highly required to deal with such problems. One of serious problem can be found at nursing care of patients suffered by intractable disease like ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) and cerebral infraction. They need intensive cares by care-workers. As a typical symptom of ALS patients their muscular functions deteriorate rapidly. In two or three years after the onset of the disease, patients are often obliged to use artificial respirators since even the breathing action becomes impossible. Once they start to use the artificial respirator, uttering voice becomes impossible. Therefore, communication with family and friends becomes difficult In this presentation activity to support daily lives of these serious patients in Nagasaki area are explained. We developed and offered communication system using original switching devices. These switches are developed considering individual symptom of the patients. Using the Internet function of the system, the patients are able to join the social activity.