ToiletPal: A Bathroom Interaction Robot to Mitigate Toilet Sedentary Behavior

Toilet sedentary behavior is an often-overlooked but harmful habit that can lead to health issues like hemorrhoids. We introduce ToiletPal, a social assistive robot that encourages users to complete bathroom sessions within an ideal timeframe. Unlike timer-based reminders, ToiletPal acts as a supportive “toilet companion,” using an elevatable footrest, voice, and image interactions to subtly convey the passage of time. This empathetic approach fosters user-driven behavior change, contributing to SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being by promoting healthier bathroom habits and reducing sedentary behavior.