Robot technology revolutionising health care in an Australian first

Staying connected during the COVID-19 pandemic has been a challenge for many people living in aged care.

Now, a remotely-operated robot is revolutionising health care in an Australian first trial.

Originally designed to connect chronically ill children to classrooms, the coronavirus pandemic has inspired Canberra-based company Robots 4 Good to adapt the product.

"The great thing with the telepresence robot is that it's hands free," Robots 4 Good CEO Megan Gilmore told 9News.

"It's not causing more friction for them trying to use technology but they're getting social benefits straight away."

David suffers from Parkinson's and lives alone at the IRT retirement village on the New South Wales South Coast.

The 77-year-old can now meet with everyone from doctors to staff through the device.

"You can make sure he hasn't fallen down or injured himself or that he's feeling good himself, you know?" David's son, Peter Robson, told 9News.

IRT now want to offer the wonder-bot to all their residents.

"It's probably here to stay and potentially part of the future of aged care," IRT's Ross Gallagher told 9News.