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Martin68

(28,462 posts)

8. First of all, people in the early stages of dementia need to be monitored, but they are not totally oblivious in any

Reply to highplainsdem (Reply #6)

Sun Jul 12, 2026, 11:59 AM

Sunday

sense of the word. They forget words, lose their train of thought, get lost outside, leave a burner on the stove burning but they would have no trouble being introduced to such a harmless-looking balloon as a friend and a way for their loved ones to watch and even talk to them remotely. I'm 74 and I have watched my parents and aunts and uncles (and those of my close friends) gradually descend into dementia. It is a process, and there is plenty of time and brainpower left to get to know a balluon "companion."

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Meet the Floating Robot Companion Designed for Safe, Friendly Human Interaction (CNET article with video) [View all] highplainsdem Sunday OP

Interesting. They must be very vulnerable to pins though. Dave Bowman Sunday #1

They'd be equipped with cameras and microphones, which makes them surveillance devices. highplainsdem Sunday #2

That could be very helpful for people wanting to keep tabs on an aged parent suffering from dementia. Martin68 Sunday #3

I can't imagine anyone with dementia reacting favorably to a large balloon following them around, highplainsdem Sunday #4

I can. Martin68 Sunday #5

You think they're too oblivious to notice it? Or could be convinced that a balloon following them around highplainsdem Sunday #6

First of all, people in the early stages of dementia need to be monitored, but they are not totally oblivious in any Martin68 Sunday #8

I'm very familiar with taking care of people with dementia, having taken care of my mother for years at highplainsdem Sunday #10

I know at least three cats and a dog that would love to play with one of these. indusurb Sunday #7

Anyone who's ever seen dogs or cats jump at balloons knows they'd be unlikely to ignore a floating robot. highplainsdem Sunday #9