Therapy robots compared
PARO, Abi and Matilda compared for Australian aged care and hospitals: type, how each is supplied, published prices and evidence as at September 2026.
Three therapy robots come up most often in Australian aged care enquiries. PARO is an animal robot that residents hold and stroke. Abi and Matilda are humanoid robots that talk with people. They do different jobs and are sold in different ways.
How do they compare?
| PARO | Abi | Matilda | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Maker | Intelligent System Co., Japan | Andromeda, Melbourne | MyMatilda, from La Trobe University research |
| Type | Robotic harp seal, FDA-cleared Class II medical device | Humanoid companion robot | Humanoid social robot |
| How supplied | Distributors quote | Subscription | Direct from the maker, a registered NDIS provider |
| Published price | Listed from $6,500 | Not published | Not published |
| Australian use | Bolton Clarke in Cairns, introduced 2018; Queensland trial | mecwacare and Medical and Aged Care Group (ABC News, April 2026) | Aged care deployments reported by the maker |
Abi and Matilda prices are not published. Ask the maker for a written quote or subscription terms.
Does animal or humanoid make a difference?
A 2025 meta-analysis of 15 randomised trials with 705 participants found robot interventions reduced agitation and anxiety in people with dementia, and animal-shaped robots did as well as humanoid ones. Cognition, depression and quality of life did not change significantly. The choice then comes down to how the robot will be used and what the unit can pay.
Which suits which setting?
- PARO suits one-to-one sessions with residents or patients who respond to touch, including people with advanced dementia and limited speech.
- A humanoid robot suits residents who can hold a conversation or join a group activity.
- A unit with both groups may end up with one of each.
What should you ask each supplier?
- The full cost over three years, including subscription or service fees.
- What happens if the robot fails, and how long a replacement takes.
- What data a talking robot collects, where it is stored and who can see it.
- The maker’s cleaning instructions, for review under your infection control checklist.
- Whether a trial is available. See leasing and trials.
For PARO against lower-cost robotic pets, see the value comparison.