Humanoids – a key technology against demographic change

Europe, and Switzerland in particular, is aging rapidly. At the same time, from 2035 onwards, there will be a growing shortage of skilled workers in nursing, care, as well as in industry and services. Humanoid robots could become a crucial technological solution.

Humanoid robots can be seen as a complement to human work, as a relief in strenuous tasks, and as assistance systems for people with physical disabilities. However, their use requires clear regulations, new designs, and a responsible public debate.

Rapid demographic change

Demographic change is exacerbating the labor shortage in many European countries, including Switzerland . Care facilities, social services, manufacturing plants, hotels, and restaurants are particularly affected. Humanoid robots, increasingly powerful thanks to advances in AI, sensors, and mechatronic systems, are emerging as a potential source of support. In care settings, they can take over basic tasks, assist with transfers, or monitor vital signs, allowing skilled professionals to focus more on human interaction and complex tasks.

Cognitive activation

In social care, humanoid systems offer new forms of cognitive activation and support, relieving the burden on care structures. Humanoid robots could also take over repetitive, physically demanding, or time-consuming tasks in the hotel and restaurant industry, as well as in production and logistics, making processes more reliable. At the same time, they open up new perspectives for people with physical limitations, for example, through advanced exoskeletons that increase mobility and autonomy.

Dependence on technology, risk of dehumanization

But these opportunities also come with risks. The danger of dehumanizing sensitive areas, unclear liability and security issues, a potential loss of interpersonal interaction, and dependence on proprietary AI ecosystems all necessitate clear social and political guidelines. Humanoid systems must not replace humans, but rather empower them – as tools, not as social substitutes. Data privacy concerns, the risk of dehumanization in sensitive areas, and the overly rapid replacement of human labor will undoubtedly spark debate in the political arena. It is therefore crucial to design humanoid systems to serve humanity – not the other way around.

Areas of application with great potential

Exoskeletons also hold particular potential. These technological advancements enable people with physical limitations to improve their mobility, manage everyday tasks more independently, or work more safely and ergonomically in their professional environment. This creates a new level of participation that goes far beyond traditional assistive systems.

New requirements for construction methods and buildings

For the widespread use of humanoid robots, new building designs are necessary. Buildings must be designed to be barrier-free and robotics-compatible, with level access, wider doors, clear navigation lines, and digital infrastructure that enables secure, real-time localization. Modular room layouts and reliable energy and network connections will also be crucial for ensuring smooth and safe human-robot interaction.

Shaping the change

Europe, including Switzerland, is at a turning point. If the continent is to master demographic change, it needs innovative solutions – and humanoid robots will play a central role, provided their deployment is prepared responsibly, human-centered, and with careful consideration in terms of infrastructure and society.

LOC AG assists real estate investors in developing appropriate strategies and concepts.

Image: ChatGPT