Buyer's Checklist: Key Questions Before Purchasing Robots

Start with the Basics: Who, What, When, Where, and How?

Ask yourself:

• Who will use the robot? Is it for a single individual (like a family member), a group (patients in a clinic), or staff (caregivers, therapists)? Age, physical ability, and technical comfort level matter here. For example, a lower limb exoskeleton designed for a young athlete recovering from a sports injury might have different adjustability needs than one for an 85-year-old with arthritis.
• What task will it perform? Is it for mobility (like gait training), daily care (incontinence support, lifting), rehabilitation (strengthening muscles), or something else entirely? An incontinence care robot focuses on hygiene, while a robotic gait trainer prioritizes movement retraining—mixing up these use cases could lead to disappointment.
• When and where will it be used? At home (small spaces, carpeted floors), in a clinic (high traffic, multiple users), or outdoors (rough terrain, weather resistance)? A lower limb exoskeleton built for indoor therapy might not handle gravel paths, just as an incontinence care robot with large, fixed components won't fit in a tiny apartment bathroom.
• How often will it be used? Daily, a few times a week, or occasionally? High-frequency use demands durability—you don't want a robot that breaks down after a month of daily sessions.

Avoid the "Shiny Object Syndrome"

It's easy to get swayed by flashy features—like a robot with a touchscreen interface or "AI-powered" sensors. But if those features don't directly address your core problem, they're just distractions. For example, a lower limb exoskeleton with built-in Bluetooth speakers might seem cool, but if the battery life is only 2 hours (and you need 4 hours of daily training), the speakers won't matter. Focus on "must-haves" over "nice-to-haves."

Don't Overlook "Small" Details

It's the little things that often cause frustration later. For example:

• Power source: Does the robot need to be plugged in, or is it battery-operated? A corded robotic gait trainer limits movement in a clinic, while a battery-powered model might die mid-session if not charged.
• Weight and portability: Can you move the robot yourself, or do you need a team? If you're a solo caregiver, a 200-pound lower limb exoskeleton that requires two people to lift is impractical.
• Software updates: Does the robot get better over time, or is it stuck with launch-day features? Many modern robots rely on software for adjustments—outdated software could mean missing out on critical improvements.

Look for Certifications (and Understand What They Mean)

Regulatory bodies like the FDA (U.S.), CE (EU), or ISO set standards for medical and assistive devices. For example:

• FDA clearance: If a robot is marketed for medical use (like robotic gait training or lower limb exoskeletons for rehabilitation), it should have FDA clearance under the "medical device" category. This means the manufacturer has provided evidence that it's safe and effective for its intended use.
• ISO 13485: This certification ensures the manufacturer follows quality management systems for medical devices—reducing the risk of faulty production.
• CE marking: Required for devices sold in the EU, indicating compliance with health, safety, and environmental protection standards.

But beware of "FDA registered" vs. "FDA cleared." Registration means the manufacturer has listed the device with the FDA—it doesn't mean the FDA has evaluated its safety or effectiveness. Always ask for proof of clearance, not just registration.

Safety Features: Plan for the "What Ifs"

Even certified robots need built-in safeguards. Ask about:

• Emergency stop buttons: Can the user or caregiver shut down the robot instantly if something goes wrong? For lower limb exoskeletons , this is critical—imagine the robot suddenly lurching forward during a walk.
• Obstacle detection: Does the robot sense objects in its path and stop? An incontinence care robot moving around a bedroom should avoid tripping over a rug or hitting furniture.
• Overload protection: Will it shut down if it's strained beyond its limits (e.g., a lower limb exoskeleton lifting more weight than it's designed for)?
• Hygiene standards: For robots like incontinence care robots , materials should be easy to disinfect, and there should be no hidden crevices where bacteria can grow.

Test It Before You Buy (If Possible)

Whenever possible, request a demo or trial period. Here's what to watch for:

• Setup time: How long does it take to assemble or prepare the robot for use? A robotic gait trainer that takes 30 minutes to calibrate before each session will eat into valuable therapy time.
• Interface design: Are buttons, screens, or voice commands intuitive? An elderly user with poor eyesight might struggle with tiny text, while a therapist juggling multiple patients needs quick, one-touch controls.
• Adjustability: Can you tweak settings (like speed, support level, or cleaning intensity) without calling tech support? A lower limb exoskeleton should let you adjust leg length or resistance easily as the user gains strength.

Training and Support for Users

Even "easy" robots require some learning. Ask:

• Does the manufacturer provide training? In-person sessions, video tutorials, or written guides? For complex devices like lower limb exoskeletons , hands-on training is non-negotiable.
• Is there a user manual in plain language? Avoid manuals filled with engineering terms—look for step-by-step instructions with pictures.
• What about caregivers or staff? If multiple people will use the robot, does the training cover different skill levels?

Upfront Costs: Negotiate, Compare, and Ask About Discounts

Don't accept the first price you're quoted. Ask:

• Are there bulk discounts? Clinics or facilities buying multiple units might qualify for lower per-unit pricing.
• Is financing available? Many manufacturers offer payment plans to spread out costs.
• What's included in the base price? Does it come with accessories (like charging cables, replacement pads for incontinence care robots , or carrying cases)?

Hidden Costs: Maintenance, Repairs, and Replacements

These are the expenses that sneak up on you:

• Maintenance: Does the robot need regular check-ups? How much do they cost? A lower limb exoskeleton with moving parts might require quarterly servicing to keep joints lubricated.
• Replacement parts: Batteries, motors, sensors—how much do they cost, and how often do they need replacing? A $500 battery that dies every 6 months adds up over time.
• Software subscriptions: Some robots charge for premium features or ongoing software updates. Read the fine print—you don't want to be hit with a $200/month fee after the first year.

Insurance and Reimbursement: Can You Get Help Paying?

For medical robots, check if insurance or government programs will cover costs. For example:

• Private insurance: Some plans cover robotic gait training if prescribed by a doctor.
• Medicare/Medicaid: In the U.S., Medicare may cover durable medical equipment (DME) if it's deemed "medically necessary."
• Veterans benefits: Veterans with service-related injuries might qualify for lower limb exoskeletons through the VA.

Manufacturers often have reimbursement specialists who can help navigate paperwork—don't hesitate to ask for assistance.

Warranty: Read the Fine Print

A warranty is your safety net. Look for:

• Length: How long is the warranty? 1 year? 3 years? The longer, the better—especially for expensive robots.
• Coverage: Does it cover parts, labor, both? Are there exclusions (like damage from misuse)?
• Transferability: If you sell the robot or donate it, does the warranty transfer to the new owner?

Customer Service: How Easy Is It to Get Help?

Test the manufacturer's responsiveness before you buy. Call their support line, send an email, or reach out on social media. Ask:

• Hours of operation: Do they offer 24/7 support, or only 9–5 weekdays? For critical care robots, after-hours support is a must.
• Response time: How quickly do they get back to you? A 48-hour wait for a reply is unacceptable if your robot is broken.
• Local service centers: Are there technicians nearby, or will you have to ship the robot across the country for repairs? Shipping a heavy lower limb exoskeleton is costly and time-consuming.

Where to Find Unbiased Information

Skip the manufacturer's website testimonials—those are often curated or paid. Instead, look for:

• Medical journals: Studies on robotic gait training or lower limb exoskeletons in peer-reviewed journals (like Physical Therapy or Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation ) will highlight pros, cons, and effectiveness.
• Forums and support groups: Platforms like Reddit's r/Rehabilitation or Caregiver Forums have threads where users share experiences. For example, you might find a post from a caregiver discussing how their incontinence care robot "saved my sanity" but "needs better battery life."
• YouTube reviews: Video reviews often show the robot in action—you can see how easy (or hard) it is to use, and spot issues the manufacturer might not mention.
• Independent testing labs: Organizations like Consumer Reports or the German Engineering Association (VDI) sometimes test assistive devices for safety and performance.

What to Look for in Reviews

Not all reviews are created equal. Focus on:

• Consistency: If multiple users complain about the same issue (e.g., "the lower limb exoskeleton overheats after 30 minutes"), it's a red flag.
• Context: A negative review from someone who used the robot for a purpose it wasn't designed for (e.g., using a home incontinence care robot in a hospital setting) might not be relevant.
• Long-term use: Reviews from users who've had the robot for 6+ months are more valuable than first-week impressions—you'll learn about durability and long-term reliability.