One such solution is an assistive robot. For some, robots helping seniors remain at home safely and independently might seem futuristic and a bit scary, bringing to mind images of terminators or transformers. But home-use robots will be user-friendly, less humanoid looking (as they might seem creepy to seniors) and will have more practical functions.

Currently, there are several assistive robots in development in the U.S. and overseas, and the robotics industry is quickly trying to either create new or adapt existing software to address the needs of the aging population.

Able to independently navigate around a home, assistive robots will eventually become an extension of virtual care, allowing caregivers and healthcare professionals to remotely monitor and examine their charge’s wellness. Units currently in the works will have the capability to remind and log medication intake, measure and record vital signs and even alert family members or EMTs in the case of a fall or other emergency. Some have even speculated that robots will encourage seniors to form healthy dietary and exercise habits.

Robots can also enhance the physical capabilities of frail seniors and people with disabilities. They will be able to pick up and carry objects ranging from the very delicate (such as a pill box or drinking glass) to the very large (think groceries or heavy flower pots).

Assistive robots will additionally help seniors feel less lonely and isolated. Many will be able to interact in a similar way that humans do, others will encourage communications with family and friends by enabling video conferencing and allowing access to social networking sites. These robots can also provide useful information and entertainment: seniors can check the weather forecast, online news, TV programming and everything else the Internet has to offer.

While assistive robots can provide greatly appreciated support and peace of mind to caregivers, another goal of these devices is to reduce the economic impact of America’s graying. Some robotics experts have set the goal of delivering a fully capable unit for under $10,000, within the next 3-5 years. To compare, according to this year’s Cost of Care study by Genworth Financial, the national hourly rate for caregivers is about $18, and a nursing home typically runs $213 a day. As these numbers grow – and they will – a robot-assistant seems well worth the initial investment.

So, why don’t we have these tech helpers in our houses now?

The perceived value-proposition is one reason. The public expectation of what robots can do is still far from reality. Unfortunately, the technology that will allow robots to perform daily tasks like cleaning a room, folding laundry or taking the trash out is still a long way off, or if it does exist, prohibitively expensive. Japanese companies have already created robots that can play a violin and dance, however, with a high price tag, they are still beyond reach of average families.

One of the critical factors that will stand in the way of personal robots entering our homes is an understandable fear of giving technology too much power. Many Americans carry a negative view of robots, a view that’s repeatedly pushed by summer blockbusters, but carries little actual representation of authenticity. People are always uncomfortable with and afraid of unknown, but one only needs to think of the first cinema patrons to see that these fears are often baseless. What a lot of people don’t realize is that automated assistants have been in use for years — in everything from surgeries, to prosthetics and physical therapy. This is a story that the industry needs to get out and educate the public about.

It’s important to understand that robots will not provide the answer to every caregiving problem and will not replace in-person interactions, attention and support. However, assistive robots will be an important part of the solution, as they extend independent living for an overwhelming number of aging boomers. Partnered with healthcare practitioners and professional caregivers, robots will allow our seniors to age in place, safely and with dignity for longer.