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　　Okada’s concept of weak robots/is not just of theoretical interest;/it may have a practical implication.// One of the main concerns in present-day Japan/is the rapid growth of its aging population,/an increase which means more and more care workers are needed.// In reality,/however,/caregivers are in desperately short supply.// As part of the solution to the problem,/the government and private sectors/are introducing care robots in nursing homes.//
　　Here are a few examples of robots at work.// One is a back support device which is designed to assist caregivers/when they lift and move patients.// Another type of robot provides services/such as bringing tea.// These robots satisfy practical needs,/easing the burden of caregivers.//
　　But there are other types of robots/whose main function is to provide companionship/and make the environment more friendly and livable.// A robot baby seal is an example.// Not only does it give comfort to the elderly,/but it also gives a sense of security.// Perhaps it is in this area/that Okada’s weak robots have the greatest potential for application.//
　　Professor Okada and his team/want us to think of robots as our companions.// They are pointing the way to a future/in which people and robots can exist in harmony,/learn to treat one another with respect,/and, just possibly,/enjoy one another’s company.//