A Synthetic Elderly Companion Named Lois

Described is a synthetic elderly companion named Lois, short for Loved One’s Information System, able to tend to an elder’s needs, monitor overall well-being and progress, detect decline and signs of further medical problems, and in general, ‘be there’ for an elder. Lois is a cognitive system comprised of computer displays, cameras, speakers, microphones, and various sensors placed throughout the home facilitating both non-invasive monitoring and highly interactive collaboration. Lois maintains a set of models enabling the recognition of events and changes of condition as well as the compiling of a historical record for later use by medical personnel and family members. Since Lois lives with the elder over an extended period of time Lois becomes tailored specifically to the elder learning their schedule, likes, dislikes, and tendencies. By working with the elder, the elder’s family members, and medical personnel, Lois is at the center of a synthetic elderly caregiver ensemble capable of performance superior to any human caregiver.