The “blue building” of the Broca hospital, in the 13the district of Paris, is home to curious characters. In a round, glass room, residents of the various geriatric services can meet Nao, Pepper, or even Paro. The latter, in the shape of a baby seal, is particularly popular. Patients take him in their arms or on their lap, and caress him, explains Lauriane Blavette, research engineer at the Broca Living Lab. With its sensors, it senses the pressure of the hands and reacts to it. This creates an interaction with the patients, who sometimes have remained withdrawn for several weeks.
These social robots are at the heart of experimental studies. At the Broca Living Lab (AP-HP/Université Paris-Cité), psychologists, engineers and caregivers are leading projects to improve their use in healthcare establishments.. "Here, we are particularly interested in new technologies, and their use in supporting the elderly, caregivers and geriatric professionals.", underlines Maribel Pino, clinical psychologist and director of the laboratory.