Elderly Sleep Support Agent Using Physical Contact Presence by Visual and Tactile Presentation

In this study, we propose an agent that guides elderly people to bed and supports better sleep through visual, voice, and tactile sense presentation. The system is mainly based on the following: 1) a visual presentation part that shows a agent approaching to bed, and getting into bed, to guide the user go to bed and sleep; and 2) a tactile presentation part that imitates the arm and body of the person lying down and that is equipped in a blanket. To draw the user to the bed in order to sleep, the agent presents a voice-like sound to notify bedtime, guides the user to the bed, and gives the user a tactile sense, such as a hug or a light tap via our blanket-type device, as though someone who cares for the user is actually there. Mental stability and sleep are expected to be drawn by the system. According to the experimental results, both the visual expression and tactile representation of simulated hugs and patting have an effect on the user’s mental stability, whereas the tactile stimulation of patting gives the user a sense of healing and comfort. Therefore, the proposed agent is considered effective to make the user comfortable.