Japanese Caregiving Robots: Meet Paro, Riba and Hal

Link to Japanese Caregiving Robots Video

Are caregiving robots a good thing? 

There is no doubt that the last robot in this video, HAL, serves a very useful purpose. Not related to the HAL in the movie 2001 (as far as I know) this HAL is an "exoskeleton" designed to support and expand the physical capabilities of people who are otherwise disabled.

But what about Paro, wouldn't it be better to have a real pet? And Riba can pick you up but Riba is not capable of providing the warmth and assurance of human touch. 

However, there is a growing shortage of caregivers so maybe the Japanese are on to something.

What do you think? Post you comments here or tweet to hashtag #carerobots