World's most advanced 'social robot' hosts Bingo lessons in British care home

The world's most advanced 'social robot' is hosting Bingo lessons in a British care home to improve the happiness and wellbeing of residents.

The robot, named Stevie, who was designed by a team from Trinity College Dublin, Ireland, is currently in Reflections day centre in Camborne, Cornwall as part of a study.

During his two week stay he has been hosting BINGO lessons, telling stories and encouraging clients to have a sing-along to ‘Night Fever’.

Designed to keep people company, the 4-foot, 7-inch robot has multiple expressions that allow the clients at Reflections, which specialises in memory care, to connect to him.

Reflections manager, Jennifer Whitfeld told the Telegraph that Stevie “lifts the mood when he comes into the room”.

“He has lots of different facial expressions so he can be sad, angry and happy - everybody really loves, watching him go through all those different emotions because they can relate to him. So if he’s sad they’re like oh,” said Ms Whitfeld.

Ms Whitfeld said people are largely inquisitive about the new resident and “love asking him questions” including “how old he is” and “if he has a girlfriend”.

It is hoped Stevie's presence will boost wellbeing and social interaction, while freeing up human staff to work with individuals needing more attention.

His creators describe Stevie as "the world's most advanced social robot", and he has recently been named among Time's 100 best inventions of 2019, featuring on the cover.

Stevie is currently in the care of experts from the University of Plymouth's Centre for Health Technology.

Dr Conor McGinn, assistant professor at Trinity College Dublin, said: "People have a very subtle ability to pick up social clues, so he has to be really finely tuned.

"We haven't had anyone who hates him yet, although some take longer than others to get used to him.

"Some older people actually find it easier to open up and talk to a robot than a person.

"Running a game of bingo might seem frivolous, but if he can increase happiness and reduce loneliness, both of which have significant health implications, Stevie will be proving his value."

Researchers will monitor Stevie’s performance and gather feedback from staff for the study.