Robot Suits - Powered suits that support disabled or elderly individuals

“Powered suits” that support disabled or elderly individuals in their physical activities are now under development. One type of powered suit is designed to be worn by people who have difficulty walking or performing actions such as standing up or sitting down. These suits work by supplementing the wearer’s own physical strength and can be used for everyday activities such as walking or for rehabilitation. Another type of powered suit is designed to be worn by caregivers and boosts their strength to help them perform physical tasks, such as lifting the people they care for. Researchers from both industry and academia are involved in developing these suits and are continually improving their designs with the goal of making them available for practical use in care and rehabilitation situations.