WINNIPEG - Victoria General Hospital says they need your help deciding what to name more than a dozen new additions to their healthcare staff. As part of a joint study with Research Manitoba and the U of M’s College of Rehabilitation Sciences, the hospital says it’s holding a contest to name 15 telepresence robots.
The bots will help researchers determine how helpful telepresence technology can be in supporting those caring for people experiencing dementia. They’re equipped with a microphone, camera, video monitor, and speakers to enable two-way real-time interaction between caregivers and those they care for, without the two needing to be in the same location.
Victoria General Hospital Foundation Executive Director Charlene Rocke says the ultimate goal of the project is to help both those living with dementia and their caregivers enjoy healthy and balanced lives. “There are nearly 20,000 Manitobans living with dementia, which is predicted to rise to over 34,000 people by 2038,” Rocke explains. “These robots will help more people in our community to live safely and independently in their homes while providing much needed support to family caregivers.”
The deadline to make your name suggestion is Friday, May 14, and VGH says they’ll announce the winners - who will get a fun prize package - on social media a week later. You can cast your vote on the Vic Foundation website.
What do you think?