From robo-toys to mechanical bears: your future carers may be robots

Japanese firms are betting on robots to look after our ageing populations in the future

Robot carers will be the next big thing coming out of Japan, if Toyota, Honda and other firms ploughing money into robo-helpers are to be believed.

From robotic toys that simulate pets for companionship, to big mechanical bears that can physically carry you between beds and wheelchairs - all with a friendly smile - the robots aren't only coming to take your jobs, but to take care of older people too.