Mecwacare expands Genesis Abi robot rollout for aged care homes
Aged care provider mecwacare is expanding its use of the Genesis Abi humanoid companion robot across its Victorian homes through an extended partnership with technology company Andromeda.
Genesis Abi is the latest model of Andromeda's companion robot, developed in close collaboration with mecwacare to support residents in aged care environments. The upgraded robot features improved multi-lingual and listening capabilities, operates in an autonomous mode, and includes specialised functions for better engagement with people living with dementia.
This deployment of Genesis Abi forms part of mecwacare's broader digital transformation, with the organisation aiming to enhance the experiences of both residents and staff while gathering valuable data to inform future service improvements.
Robot enhancements
Genesis Abi builds on Andromeda's existing Abi platform, which is designed to provide emotionally intelligent companionship and reduce loneliness among residents.
The new upgrades focus on giving the robot the ability to interact in multiple languages, understand speech with greater accuracy, and offer an autonomous setting for navigation and activity management within the care homes. There is also a specific mode which enables Abi to engage more effectively with residents living with dementia.
Andromeda Chief Executive Officer, Grace Brown, commented on the collaborative development which led to Genesis Abi's enhancements. She said:
"Our partnership with mecwacare has provided deep insight to help shape this next iteration of Abi - a trusted friend and companion that residents and staff look forward to spending time with. Every story, smile and shared moment has inspired us to make Genesis Abi even more intuitive, empathetic and responsive."
The robot's autonomous mode allows care staff to programme and set daily schedules, enabling Abi to move independently throughout the facilities.
This feature supports care teams by helping to facilitate group activities and providing one-on-one interaction with residents, freeing up staff members to focus on clinical and critical care tasks.
Resident impact
The introduction of Genesis Abi into 10 mecwacare homes has already seen observable changes in resident engagement and wellbeing. Anecdotal evidence from care teams indicates that the presence of the robot has prompted previously quiet residents to initiate conversations and join group activities, increasing levels of social connection within the homes.
Anne McCormack, mecwacare Chief Executive Officer, stated:
"Over the past six months, we've seen the laughter and happiness that Abi brings to residents at the 10 homes where she currently resides. Our care teams have seen firsthand the difference she makes each day. Residents who were once quiet are now engaging in conversation, and they are coming together to share moments with Abi. We're thrilled to welcome Genesis Abi and look forward to seeing how she continues to inspire joy, especially for people living with dementia."
The use of Genesis Abi also generates data that mecwacare anticipates will inform future developments and refinements in technology-enabled care, ensuring that approaches can continue to evolve in response to resident needs.
Ongoing partnership
The collaboration between mecwacare and Andromeda will see Genesis Abi rolled out across additional homes in the coming period. Both organisations indicate that their partnership has contributed to shaping the features and functionality of the robot, with a focus on improving emotional support and companionship for residents.
Genesis Abi is expected to contribute to mecwacare's ongoing aims of enriching resident experience through a combination of personal care, social engagement, and technological innovation.
