"Alexa, where did I put my pills?" Amazon bot signed up to help Rotherham patients

Dozens are taking part in tests to see how the voice-activated gadget can help people who cannot access the internet through traditional means.

The idea is part of “reablement” savings, which also saw the Rotherham Intermediate Care Centre at Badsley Moor Lane close last year.

Anne-Marie Lubanski, Rotherham Council adult care director, said using the Amazon kit avoided patients ringing staff all the time.

“We have got a pilot running where we are testing Alexa with people,” she said. 

“We’ve got about 40 people on the pilot. I have sat in some of the case studies and it’s amazing what it does.”

The council says its cost-saving moves create a more personalised approach for patients in fields like occupational therapy.

Ms Lubanksi said: “If we don’t do the things that we can to minimise the people that don’t have ongoing care and support needs, then we won’t have the money to give to the people that do need it.”