Pepper the Robot Provides Physical and Cognitive Benefits to ARC Clients 

COLUMBUS, Ohio – ARC Industries, a non-profit agency dedicated to empowering persons with disabilities to achieve their life goals, is integrating a variety of technology tools to enhance their programming and daily activities with clients.  From playing motion-sensor video games and utilizing virtual-reality headsets to interacting with a humanoid robot, the gamification aspects of this technology provide physical and cognitive benefits through fun, interactive experiences.   

Funding to support this investment in technology was provided through a $20,000 Tech First Initiative grant from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, as well as a $25,000 grant from the Columbus Foundation specifically for the purchase of Pepper the Robot. As part of the Tech First Initiative grant, ARC Industries contracted with an Emerging Technology Specialist to assess and match the Adult Day Services participants with technologies that will improve their social, emotional, and physical wellbeing. 

“Through an initial needs assessment, I learned that many ARC participants were at risk for falls, and there was a common need to encourage physical activity and improve socialization,” said Wes Patton, ARC Industries Emerging Technology Specialist. “With more than 15 years of physical therapy experience, I know that physical activity and using our sense of balance is an evidence-based strategy to prevent falls by increasing coordination, strength, and reaction times. I also know that people will try harder at a game than they will at therapy sessions, making these technology tools incredibly beneficial.”  

Pepper the robot arrived at ARC West, the agency’s Adult Resource Center, in September and is used to support participants with their cognitive development, speech generation and socialization skills. Pepper connects with people of all ages, providing hands-on, interactive experiences that bring learning to life, as well as sparking curiosity in STEM skills like computer science and robotics.  

“Pepper also provides cognitive recognition activities that support our aging adult curriculum,” said Amanda Smith, Chief Services Officer. “The more we involve Pepper in our programming, the more opportunities we see for this technology to support our participants. We are grateful for the grants that have allowed us to pursue this exciting new way to enhance the lives of the individuals we serve.” 

To learn more about ARC Industries, visit www.arcind.com.