'She was brilliant, a glimpse into the future': Humanoid robot chats with residents at Black Country care home

Residents at Newbury Manor Nursing Home were given a glimpse of the future after welcoming a rare humanoid robot to their home for a special demonstration.

The visit, which was featured on ITV News, saw the robot interact with residents and answer their questions as part of a trial showcasing its conversational abilities.

Staff at the home said residents were fascinated by the technology, with many taking the opportunity to chat with the robot and ask how it works.

The demonstration formed part of efforts to explore how robots could help tackle loneliness among older people in care settings.

Care homes across the world are increasingly experimenting with social robots designed to hold simple conversations, play games and provide companionship. Studies suggest these machines can help improve mental wellbeing and reduce feelings of isolation among elderly residents.

During the session at Newbury Manor, residents gathered together to see the robot in action as it responded to questions and engaged in light-hearted conversation.

Staff praised the residents for their curiosity and enthusiasm during the visit.

In a post on social media after the ITV broadcast, the home said: “We welcomed into our home one of four humanoid robots in the world to demonstrate her conversation capabilities and she was brilliant – as were our residents who asked questions.”

Newbury Manor Nursing Home provides residential and nursing care and aims to create a homely environment with a strong programme of activities for residents.

While robots are unlikely to replace human carers, experts say they could support staff and provide companionship for residents, particularly during quiet periods or when people are feeling lonely.

The visit offered residents a chance to experience cutting-edge technology first-hand and sparked lively conversations about how robots might play a role in care homes of the future.