When we think about robots, we tend to think about them doing physical work. But that's not the only way for robots to help people. That's where socially assistive robotics comes in -- by helping people in social, not physical ways. My work was inspired by the need for accessible and effective care for large populations. When people are engaging in difficult health-changing behaviors they need companionship and encouragement, and that support is most effective when it comes from a physical agent, such as another person, pet or a robot.