Robots may some day medically assist American seniors, researchers say.

HealthDay reported that "in the not-so-distant future, American seniors may turn to helpful, uncomplaining robots to fill the worrisome 'care gap' that many face today." Already, University of Massachusetts researchers have created the uBOT-5, which is "capable of carrying out simple tasks, while it monitors the home environment." The $65,000 prototype "can even spot trouble -- such as a person falling down -- and call 911 if necessary." According to co-inventor Rod Grupen, Ph.D., "any 'authorized user' can jump into and guide the robot," meaning that "if you can't get to your doctor, your doctor can now come to you." Moreover, "the UMass team hopes that the uBOT-5 will someday be capable of running simple medical tests, such as measuring blood pressure or blood sugar."