Information processing device, information processing method, and information processing program

Abstract

To maintain the motivation of the elderly regarding healthcare, and to promote third-party support for the effective use of IT equipment in their healthcare. [Solution] The information processing device according to the present invention comprises a detection unit and a provision unit. The detection unit detects the sending of a message from a second terminal used by the second user to a first terminal used by the first user as an action of the second user performed for the execution of a task for the first user. The provision unit provides a reward to the second user in accordance with the second user's actions. The actions of the second user include, for example, the second user U2 accompanying the first user U1, sending and receiving voice calls or text messages between the two terminals, and push notifications.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, healthcare management considering the characteristics of the elderly has become important. For example, behavior management and monitoring services for the elderly using smartphones have been studied.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, for example, there is room for improvement in that it is not easy to maintain motivation for the healthcare of elderly parents. In addition, there is also room for improvement in that it is not easy to set up IT devices for elderly parents.

[0005] The present application has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program capable of maintaining motivation for the healthcare of the elderly and promoting third-party support in the utilization of IT devices effective for such healthcare.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing device according to the present application is characterized by comprising: a detection unit that detects the transmission of a message from a second terminal used by the second user to a first terminal used by the first user as an action of the second user performed for the execution of a task for the first user; and a provision unit that provides a reward to the second user in accordance with the action of the second user. In this specification, "task" refers to a specific goal or activity performed by the first user, including, for example, achieving a step count or managing meals. "Action" refers to a specific action taken by the second user to support the first user, including, for example, sending a message or accompanying the first user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment of the system, elderly people can maintain their motivation for healthcare while using IT equipment that they may find difficult to use. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an overview of the information processing method according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 shows an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing procedure of the information processing apparatus according to the present invention. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram showing an overview of the information processing method according to a modified embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that implements the functions of an information processing device. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following describes in detail, with reference to the drawings, the embodiments for implementing the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments"). Note that these embodiments do not limit the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application. Furthermore, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals in the following embodiments, and redundant descriptions are omitted.

[0010] [Overview of Information Processing Methods] First, with reference to Figure 1, an overview of the information processing method performed by the information processing device according to the embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the information processing method according to the embodiment. The information processing system S shown in Figure 1 includes an information processing device 1, a first terminal 2a, and a second terminal 2b. The information processing device 1, the first terminal 2a, and the second terminal 2b are connected to each other via a network N (see Figure 2) by wire or wireless means so that they can communicate with each other. The network N is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) such as the Internet.

[0011] In the information processing system S, the information processing device 1 detects the actions of the second user U2 to perform a task for the first user U1 using the first terminal 2a, by coordinating the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b to detect support for task execution by the second user U2. Then, the information processing device 1 provides a reward to the second user U2 in accordance with the achievement of task execution through the provision of support.

[0012] Here, the first user U1 is using the first terminal 2a and is an elderly person of relatively high age. The second user U2 is using the second terminal 2b and is a caregiver for the first user U1. The relationship between the first user U1 and the second user U2 is, for example, parent and child, but is not limited to this; it could also be grandparent and grandchild. Furthermore, the relationship between the first user U1 and the second user U2 is not blood-related and could be that of a third party (for example, if the second user U2 is the care manager for the first user U1).

[0013] Support provided by the second user U2 using the second terminal 2b for the first user U1 to perform a task includes, for example, configuration support and action support.

[0014] Configuration support involves a second user (U2) assisting a first user (U1), who is unfamiliar with IT equipment, by teaching them how to configure and operate it. Configuration support includes, for example, the following actions: • Installation of applications (hereinafter also simply referred to as "apps") • Settings for installed apps • Setting up ID linkage between terminal 1 2a and terminal 2b

[0015] Here, "app" refers to tasks performed by the first user U1, and includes, for example, a healthcare app. A healthcare app might perform tasks such as counting steps, weighing a person, monitoring blood pressure, measuring pulse and heart rate, measuring respiratory rate, measuring wake-up and bedtime, and measuring and recording calories burned.

[0016] App installation includes actions such as installing an app downloaded from a website on network N. The apps are installed on terminal 1 2a and terminal 2b, but may be installed on terminal 1 2a only.

[0017] The settings for the installed app include general settings, such as setting the ID of the first user U1 for the app, allowing push notifications, and setting multiple target values ​​(target steps, target weight, target blood pressure, target pulse / heart rate, target respiratory rate, target wake-up time / bedtime, etc.). Also, similar to the first device 2a, the settings for the first user U1 for the above app installed on the second device 2b include the same settings.

[0018] The setting of ID cooperation between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b is, for example, the setting of ID cooperation regarding the installed application. Note that the setting of ID cooperation may be not only the ID regarding the application, but also the cooperation between terminal-specific IDs or the cooperation between the first user U1 and the second user U2.

[0019] Action support is the action of the second user U2 performed for the first user U1 to execute a task. Action support includes, for example, the following actions. · The second user U2 accompanying the first user U1 who walks (for example, takes a walk, etc.) while carrying the first terminal 2a · Sending and receiving of voice calls and text messages (for example, messages of a communication application, etc.) between the second terminal 2b and the first terminal 2a, video calls · Push notifications (for example, notifications to the first terminal 2a according to operations on the second terminal 2b)

[0020] The information processing device 1 detects the above-described setting support and action support respectively, and determines the presence or absence of such support. For example, the information processing device 1 detects the following operations performed between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b, and determines the presence or absence of setting support according to the detection result. · The distance between the terminals and the timing of setting support · The implementation of voice calls, text message sending and receiving, and video calls between the terminals and the timing of setting support · The presence or absence of the setting of ID cooperation between the terminals

[0021] The information processing device 1 detects the distance between the two terminals, measured using the Global Positioning System (GPS), Bluetooth®, and IP functions installed on each of the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b, and the timing (e.g., time, date and time) when configuration support (e.g., installation of a pedometer app on the first terminal 2a) is performed. The information processing device 1 then determines that configuration support is provided if, for example, the distance between the two terminals falls below a pre-set threshold and the pedometer app is installed on the first terminal 2a. However, even if the distance between the two terminals is not below the threshold, if the pedometer app is installed on the first terminal 2a, the information processing device 1 may determine that there is no configuration support, assuming that the installation of the pedometer app was completed by the first user U1 before the support was provided by the second user U2.

[0022] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 detects when voice calls, text messages are sent or received, video calls are made, and when configuration support is provided between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b. The information processing device 1 determines that configuration support is provided, for example, when text messages are sent or received and a pedometer app is installed on the first terminal 2a. It is assumed that the first user U1 is aware in advance that the sender of the message is the second user U2.

[0023] Furthermore, even if text messages have not been sent or received, if the pedometer app has been installed on the first terminal 2a, the information processing device 1 may determine that no configuration support is needed, assuming that the installation of the pedometer app has been completed by the first user U1 before the support provided by the second user U2.

[0024] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 detects whether or not there is a setting for linking IDs (terminal ID, user ID, etc.) between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b. For example, if there is a setting for linking terminal IDs between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b, the information processing device 1 determines that setting support is available. However, even if there is no linking of terminal IDs between the two terminals, if the pedometer app is installed on the first terminal 2a, the information processing device 1 may determine that there is no setting support, assuming that the installation of the pedometer app was completed by the first user U1 before the support was provided by the second user U2.

[0025] Next, the information processing device 1 detects the following operations performed between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b after the configuration support has been performed, and determines whether or not action support is provided based on the detection results. • Distance between devices and timing of task execution • The timing of voice calls, text messages, and video calls between devices, as well as the timing of task execution. • Execution of push notifications and timing of task execution

[0026] The information processing device 1 detects the distance between the two terminals, measured using GPS, Bluetooth, etc., installed in each of the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b, and the timing (e.g., time, date and time) when a task (e.g., taking a walk) is performed. The information processing device 1 then determines that activity support is available if, for example, the distance between the two terminals is below a preset threshold and the dates and times when the pedometer app measured steps overlap. The information processing device 1 may also determine that activity support is not available if the task is performed by the first user U1, even if the distance between the two terminals is not below the threshold. Furthermore, the task performed by the first user U1 does not need to be known to the second user U2.

[0027] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 detects when voice calls, text messages are sent and received, and video calls are made between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b, as well as when tasks are executed. The information processing device 1 then determines that activity support is available if, for example, text messages are sent and received and the date and time when the pedometer app measures steps coincide. The information processing device 1 may also determine that activity support is not available if the task is executed by the first user U1 themselves, even if no text messages are sent or received.

[0028] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 detects when a push notification is sent from the information processing device 1 to the first terminal 2a due to an operation of an application installed on the second terminal 2b, and also detects the timing when a task is executed. The information processing device 1 then determines that there is activity support if, for example, a push notification is sent and the date and time when the pedometer application measures steps coincide. The information processing device 1 may also determine that there is no activity support if the task is executed by the first user U1 itself, even if no push notification is sent.

[0029] The information processing device 1 determines whether the above-mentioned task has been completed. If it has not been completed (no action taken), it notifies the second terminal 2b of the second user U2, who is the target of the notification, that the task set for the first user U1 has not been completed. In other words, if the degree of task completion is relatively low, the information processing device 1 notifies the second terminal 2b to prompt the second user U2 to take action. If the second user U2 receives the notification that the task set for the first user U1 has not been completed and takes the necessary action support, the information processing device 1 again detects the actions taken between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b and determines whether or not action support is needed based on the detection result. The timing of the determination of whether or not the task has been completed is not limited to when the degree of task completion is relatively low. It may be any timing determined by the business operator managing the information processing device 1, or it may be the timing when the second user U2 operates the second terminal 2b to the information processing device 1 and requests a determination, or it may be the timing set when the task was set for the first terminal 2a. Furthermore, it is acceptable to allow changes to the settings even after they have been initially configured.

[0030] In addition, while the information processing device 1 treats the person providing behavioral support and the recipient of notification as the same person, it is not limited to this and may treat them as different persons. In this case, for example, if the goal is not achieved or no action is taken, the information processing device 1 will notify a third party different from the person providing the behavioral support.

[0031] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 may, for example, determine the degree of relationship with the first user U1, such as the level of intimacy, and send a notification requesting action support to users who are estimated to have a high level of intimacy or a high probability of providing support. In this case, the information processing device 1 will make the determination even if the second user U2 does not know what support the first user U1 needs.

[0032] The information processing device 1 then provides a reward to the second user U2 in accordance with the achievement of task execution through the implementation of behavioral support. Specifically, for example, if the information processing device 1 detects that the first user U1's daily step count has reached the target number of steps (for example, 6,700 steps for men and 5,900 steps for women), it determines that task execution has been achieved through behavioral support and provides a reward to the second terminal 2b. If multiple task executions (for example, measuring steps using a pedometer app, measuring weight using a scale app, etc.) have been set for the first user U1, the information processing device 1 determines the achievement of each task.

[0033] The reward here may be, but is not limited to, digital currency, coupons for goods or accommodation, or lottery tickets. The reward may vary depending on the degree of task completion. For example, the information processing device 1 may provide 100% of the reward if the task is completed, but provide 50% of the reward if half of the entire task is completed. Furthermore, the recipients of the reward may be, for example, the user supporting the action and the user receiving the notification, if they are different individuals, either each user may be the recipient of the reward, or only one of them may be the recipient. The first user U1 who performed the task may also be included as a recipient.

[0034] [An example of information processing] Next, the information processing flow in the information processing system S of this embodiment will be described. First, the first terminal 2a performs terminal settings for task execution by the first user U1 (step S1). These terminal settings include the installation of the application on the first terminal 2a, the configuration of the installed application, and the setting of ID linkage between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b.

[0035] The second user U2 provides setup support to the first user U1 (step S2). For example, as setup support, the second user U2 installs a pedometer app on the first device 2a while carrying the second device 2b. Note that step S2 does not have to be performed after step S1, but may be performed simultaneously with step S1.

[0036] The information processing device 1 detects setting support and determines whether or not such setting support exists (step S3). For example, the information processing device 1 determines that setting support exists if the distance between the two terminals is below a preset threshold and the pedometer application is installed on the first terminal 2a.

[0037] Next, the information processing device 1 detects the status of the task performed by the first user U1 (step S4). The information processing device 1 detects the status of the task based, for example, on the number of steps measured by the pedometer app on the first terminal 2a and the target number of steps.

[0038] Next, if the detected task is incomplete or not performed, the information processing device 1 notifies the second terminal 2b (step S5). For example, if the measured number of steps has not reached the target number of steps, the information processing device 1 notifies the second terminal 2b that the target number of steps has not been reached.

[0039] When the second user U2 receives a notification via the second terminal 2b, it uses the second terminal 2b to provide action support to the first user U1 (step S6). For example, as action support, the second user U2 sends a text message to the first terminal 2a via the second terminal 2b. The content of the text message may be, for example, written by the second user U2, or it may be selected by the second user U2 from several pre-prepared standard messages. It may also be a message using an in-app function provided by the information processing device 1 to the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b. An example of a text message written by the second user U2 might be, "Dad, it seems like we didn't go for our usual walk today, what's wrong?"

[0040] Next, the information processing device 1 detects behavioral support and determines whether or not such behavioral support exists (step S7). As described above, the information processing device 1 detects, for example, the distance between two terminals and the timing when the task was executed. If the distance is below a threshold and the dates and times when the pedometer app measured steps overlap, it determines that behavioral support exists.

[0041] The information processing device 1 determines that the task has been completed by implementing the behavioral support (step S8). For example, the information processing device 1 determines that the task has been completed if the number of steps taken by the first user U1 per day reaches the target number of steps.

[0042] Next, the information processing device 1 provides a reward in accordance with the completion of the task (step S9). For example, the information processing device 1 provides a digitized product coupon as a reward.

[0043] Thus, according to the information processing device 1 of this embodiment, in addition to supporting the execution of tasks using IT equipment, when a task is completed, the child is rewarded in response to the child's behavioral support for their elderly parent, making it easier to maintain the child's motivation for the parent's healthcare.

[0044] [Example of an information processing system configuration] Next, the configuration of the information processing system S, which includes the information processing device 1 according to the embodiment, will be described using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the information processing system S according to the embodiment.

[0045] The first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b are smart devices, including smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, and wearable devices such as AR / MR glasses, used by users (first user U1, second user U2). These are portable terminal devices capable of communicating with any server device (e.g., information processing device 1) via a wireless communication network such as 4G (Generation) or LTE (Long Term Evolution) (e.g., network N shown in Figure 2). Furthermore, the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b have screens such as liquid crystal displays that have touch panel functionality and accept various operations on displayed data such as content from the user, such as tapping, sliding, and scrolling, using fingers or a stylus.

[0046] The information processing device 1 is an information processing device that works in conjunction with the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b, providing each of the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b with API (Application Programming Interface) services for various applications (hereinafter referred to as "apps") and various data, and is implemented by a computer or cloud system.

[0047] Furthermore, the information processing device 1 may be an information processing device that provides some kind of Web service online to the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b. For example, the information processing device 1 may provide services such as internet connection, search services, SNS (Social Networking Service), e-commerce (EC), electronic payment, online games, online banking, online trading, accommodation / ticket reservations, video / music distribution, news, maps, route search, route guidance, route information, service information, and weather forecasts as Web services. In practice, the information processing device 1 may cooperate with various servers that provide the above-mentioned Web services and act as an intermediary for Web services, or it may be responsible for processing Web services.

[0048] The information processing device 1 can acquire user information relating to the first user U1 and the second user U2. For example, the information processing device 1 acquires information about the user attributes of the first user U1 and the second user U2, such as gender, age, and residential area. The information processing device 1 then stores and manages the information about the user attributes along with identification information (such as user IDs) that identifies the first user U1 and the second user U2.

[0049] [Example of information processing device configuration] Next, the configuration of the information processing device 1 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 2. The information processing device 1 shown in Figure 2 has a communication unit 100, a storage unit 110, and a processing unit 120.

[0050] (Regarding Communications Unit 100) The communication unit 100 is implemented, for example, by a NIC (Network Interface Card). The communication unit 100 is also connected to the network N by wired or wireless connection.

[0051] (Regarding memory unit 110) The memory unit 110 is implemented by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or by a storage device such as a hard disk or optical disc. The memory unit 110 stores various information that the processing unit 120 refers to when it operates, and various information acquired when the processing unit 120 operates.

[0052] The storage unit 110 stores, for example, user information relating to a first user U1 and a second user U2. The user information includes, for example, a user ID (Identifier), which is identification information for identifying the first user U1 and the second user U2.

[0053] Furthermore, user information includes information such as the type of the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b (e.g., smartphone), identification information (terminal ID), and address information. Note that user information is not limited to the above and may include various types of information depending on the purpose. For example, user information may include information such as name, family structure, occupation, job title, income, qualifications, living situation, car ownership, commuting time, hobbies, and lifestyle.

[0054] (Regarding processing unit 120) The processing unit 120 is a controller, and is realized by various programs (corresponding to an example of an information processing program) stored in the memory device inside the information processing device 1, such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), executing them using a memory area such as RAM as the working area. In the example shown in Figure 2, the processing unit 120 has a detection unit 121, a determination unit 122, and a provision unit 123.

[0055] (Regarding the detection unit 121) The detection unit 121 detects the sending of a message from the second terminal 2b used by the second user U2 to the first terminal 2a used by the first user U1 as an action taken by the second user U2 to perform a task for the first user U1. This message sending includes the sending and receiving of voice calls, text messages, and video calls between the terminals as described above.

[0056] (Regarding the determination unit 122) The determination unit 122 determines whether or not an action has been taken by the second user U2. For example, the determination unit 122 determines whether or not an action support has been taken by the second user U2 by detecting the action support. The determination unit 122 also determines whether or not a setting support has been taken by the second user U2 by detecting the setting support.

[0057] Furthermore, the determination unit 122 determines whether the task performed by the first user U1 has been completed. For example, the determination unit 122 determines that the task has been completed if the number of steps measured by the pedometer app on the first terminal 2a has reached the target number of steps.

[0058] (Regarding Section 123) The reward unit 123 provides rewards to the second user U2 in accordance with the second user U2's actions. That is, the reward unit 123 provides rewards to the second user U2 in accordance with the completion of tasks performed in accordance with the second user U2's actions. For example, if the first user U1 reaches a target number of steps per day, the reward unit 123 provides the second user U2 with a product coupon.

[0059] [Processing Procedure] Next, the processing procedure by the information processing device 1 according to the embodiment will be described using Figure 3. Figure 3 is a flowchart of the processing procedure according to the embodiment. Note that the processing procedure shown below is repeatedly executed by the processing unit 120 of the information processing device 1.

[0060] First, the detection unit 121 detects whether or not configuration support is available (step S101). As described above, the detection unit 121 detects whether or not configuration support is available depending on the distance between the two terminals and the timing of the configuration support.

[0061] Next, the detection unit 121 detects the status of the task executed by the first user U1, and if the task status is not achieved, it notifies the second terminal 2b to encourage the second user U2 to take action (step S102).

[0062] Next, the detection unit 121 detects whether or not behavioral support is provided (step S103). As described above, the detection unit 121 detects whether or not behavioral support is provided based on the distance between the two terminals and the timing of the behavioral support.

[0063] Next, the determination unit 122 determines whether the task has been completed through the implementation of the behavioral support (step S104). As described above, the determination unit 122 determines that the task has been completed if the number of steps taken by the first user U1 per day reaches the target number of steps.

[0064] Next, the provision unit 123 provides a reward and terminates processing in accordance with the completion of the task. As described above, if the first user U1's daily step count reaches the target number of steps, the provision unit 123 provides a digitized product coupon as a reward and terminates processing.

[0065] 〔effect〕 As described above, the information processing device 1 according to the embodiment comprises a detection unit 121 and a provision unit 123. The detection unit 121 detects the transmission of a message from the second terminal 2b used by the second user U2 to the first terminal 2a used by the first user U1 as an action of the second user U2 performed for the execution of a task for the first user U1. The provision unit 123 provides a reward to the second user U2 in accordance with the action of the second user U2.

[0066] This configuration makes it easier to maintain the motivation of the second user U2 towards the first user U1's healthcare, as the second user U2 (e.g., a child) provides a reward when the task is completed in response to the second user U2's behavioral support for the first user U1 (e.g., an elderly parent). Furthermore, since the second user U2 is rewarded when the first user U1 completes a task, it becomes possible to promote third-party support (behavioral support by the second user U2) when the first user U1 uses IT equipment that is effective for their healthcare, while the elderly may find it difficult to use such equipment.

[0067] Furthermore, in the information processing device 1 according to the embodiment, the providing unit 123 provides a reward in accordance with the completion of a task that is performed in accordance with the actions of the second user U2.

[0068] This configuration can further encourage the implementation of behavioral support by the second user, U2.

[0069] Furthermore, in the information processing device 1 according to the embodiment, the detection unit 121 detects the status of a task executed by the first user U1, and if the task status is not achieved, it notifies the second terminal 2b to prompt the second user U2 to take action.

[0070] This configuration encourages the first user U1 to execute and complete tasks by providing action support from the second user U2.

[0071] [Hardware configuration] The information processing device 1, first terminal 2a, and second terminal 2b according to the above-described embodiment are implemented by a computer 1000 having a configuration such as that shown in Figure 5. The following explanation will use the information processing device 1 as an example. Figure 5 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer 1000 that implements the functions of the information processing device 1 and the first terminal 2a and second terminal 2b.

[0072] Computer 1000 is connected to an output device 1010 and an input device 1020, and has a configuration in which an arithmetic unit 1030, a primary storage device 1040, a secondary storage device 1050, an output interface 1060, an input interface 1070, and a network interface 1080 are connected by a bus 1090.

[0073] The arithmetic unit 1030 operates based on programs stored in the primary storage device 1040 and the secondary storage device 1050, as well as programs read from the input device 1020, and executes various processes. The primary storage device 1040 is a memory device, such as RAM, that temporarily stores data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations. The secondary storage device 1050 is a storage device where data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and is implemented using ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD, flash memory, etc.

[0074] Output IF1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to output devices 1010, such as monitors and printers, and is implemented using connectors of standards such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), and HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface). Input IF1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as mice, keyboards, and scanners, and is implemented using, for example, USB.

[0075] The input device 1020 may also be a device that reads information from, for example, an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), or PD (Phase Change Rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), tape media, magnetic recording media, or semiconductor memory. Furthermore, the input device 1020 may also be an external storage medium such as a USB memory stick.

[0076] Network IF1080 receives data from other devices via network N and sends it to the arithmetic unit 1030, and also transmits data generated by the arithmetic unit 1030 to other devices via network N.

[0077] The arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output IF 1060 and the input IF 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or the secondary storage device 1050 onto the primary storage device 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0078] For example, when computer 1000 functions as information processing device 1, the arithmetic unit 1030 of computer 1000 performs the same functions as the processing unit 120 by executing a program (for example, an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040. In other words, the arithmetic unit 1030 performs processing by the information processing device 1 according to the embodiment in cooperation with the program (for example, an information processing program) loaded onto the primary storage device 1040.

[0079] [Variation] In the above embodiment, the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b are linked to support the achievement of task execution, but the system is not limited to this, and the second terminal 2b alone may be used to support the achievement of task execution. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an overview of an information processing method according to a modified example of the embodiment. The information processing system SA shown in Figure 4 includes an information processing device 1A, a first terminal 2a, and a second terminal 2b.

[0080] In the information processing system SA, the information processing device 1A detects support provided by the second user U2 using the second terminal 2b, as an action taken by the second user U2 to perform a task for the first user U1 using the first terminal 2a. The information processing device 1A then provides a reward to the second user U2 in accordance with the achievement of task execution through the provision of support.

[0081] First, the second terminal 2b is configured for task execution by the first user U1 (step S11). This configuration includes installing the application on the second terminal 2b as described above, and configuring the installed application. If the installed application has multiple settings (for example, meals, medication, radio calisthenics, studying / learning, etc.), the configuration of each setting is included. As an example, regarding the meal management of the first user U1, the second user U2 registers the age, height / weight, target calories, restricted foods, etc. of the first user U1 (grandpa) in the application.

[0082] Next, the information processing device 1A notifies a support reminder (step S12). For example, if there is a setting item called "meal," the information processing device 1A notifies the second terminal 2b of a reminder at each mealtime to encourage the second user U2 to perform the action support.

[0083] The second user U2, in response to the notified support reminder, provides action support for the first user U1 to perform the task (step S13). Action support includes, for example, the following actions: • Real-time conversation • Voice calls, sending and receiving text messages, and video calls between the second terminal 2b and the first terminal 2a. • Dedicated UI for communication between the second device 2b and the first device 2a, such as chatting via a communication app.

[0084] In this context, real-time conversations include, for example, in the case of meal management, a second user U2 asking the first user U1, "Did you eat lunch today?"

[0085] Voice calls, text message transmissions, and video calls between the second terminal 2b and the first terminal 2a include, for example, a configuration in which screen 20 (see Figure 4) is displayed on the second terminal 2b when sending or receiving text messages, allowing the user to select the necessary items.

[0086] The dedicated UI for chatting between the second terminal 2b and the first terminal 2a using the communication app includes, for example, a configuration that displays screen 21 (see Figure 4) on the second terminal 2b using the app's dedicated UI, allowing users to input necessary items or check boxes.

[0087] The information processing device 1A detects the following operations performed between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b, and determines whether or not to provide action support based on the detection result (step S14). • Distance between devices and timing of actions (recording) • The timing of voice calls, text messages, and video calls between devices, and the recording of those actions. • Use of the dedicated UI mentioned above

[0088] Here, "action (recording)" differs from the above embodiment in that it refers to, for example, recording an item selected on a screen displayed on the first terminal 2a by a communication application (for example, screen 20 shown in Figure 4), or recording the first user U1's response to an inquiry from the second user U2 during a chat using the same application. In other words, the information processing device 1A detects the above-mentioned actions (recordings) and determines whether or not action support is provided based on the detection results.

[0089] Furthermore, the dedicated UI may have, for example, functions for manual input by the second user U2, as well as functions for input through automatic reading of talk or text messages, or through automatic speech recognition during voice calls. The dedicated UI may also be configured so that, for example, when the second user U2 inputs a new menu on screen 21 based on a conversation with the first user U1, they can request a review of the new menu from a specialist such as a registered dietitian with a single button. Additionally, the dedicated UI may be configured so that, for example, when the second user U2 inputs a new menu on screen 21 based on a conversation with the first user U1, they receive a notification if the new menu contains any restricted foods that should be avoided.

[0090] The information processing device 1A determines that the task has been completed by implementing the behavioral support (step S15). For example, if the calorie intake of the first user U1 reaches the target calorie intake, the information processing device 1A determines that the task has been completed.

[0091] Next, the information processing device 1A provides a reward in accordance with the completion of the task (step S16). For example, the information processing device 1A provides a digitized product coupon as a reward.

[0092] 〔others〕 Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the content of the above embodiments. Furthermore, the aforementioned components include those that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art, those that are substantially the same, and those that fall within the so-called equivalent range. Moreover, the aforementioned components can be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, or modifications of the components can be made without departing from the gist of the embodiments described above.

[0093] Furthermore, as an example of the embodiments of this invention, we have described the roles of the first user U1 and the second user U2, as well as examples of processing performed by each terminal and information processing device, using the example of a child supporting the healthcare of an elderly parent. However, this invention can perform similar processing not only in healthcare, but also in situations where the first user U1 requires support for settings and actions, such as children's learning or monitoring animals.

[0094] Furthermore, the information processing device 1,1A may use AI (artificial intelligence) to determine, for example, whether or not behavioral support is provided. Specifically, in the message exchange between the first terminal 2a and the second terminal 2b, the information processing device 1,1A uses AI to determine whether or not behavioral support is provided, based on the response, "different from usual" (different from a day when behavioral support was not provided) or "the same as usual" (the same as a day when behavioral support was provided).

[0095] Furthermore, the information processing units 1 and 1A may be implemented using multiple server computers, and depending on the function, the configuration can be flexibly changed, such as by calling external platforms via APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) or network computing.

[0096] Furthermore, each of the processes described in the embodiments above can be combined as appropriate, provided that the processing content does not contradict each other.

[0097] Furthermore, the terms "section, module, unit" mentioned above can be replaced with "means" or "circuit," etc. For example, the processing unit 120 can be replaced with processing means or processing circuit. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] 1. Information Processing Device 2a First terminal 2b Second terminal 100 Communications Department 110 Storage section 120 Processing Unit 121 Detection unit 122 Judgment section 123 Provision Department S Information Processing System

Claims

1. A detection unit detects the transmission of a message from a second terminal used by the second user to a first terminal used by the first user as an action taken by the second user for the purpose of executing a task for the first user, A provision unit that provides a reward to the second user in accordance with the actions of the second user, An information processing device characterized by comprising:

2. The aforementioned supply unit is, The reward is provided upon completion of the task, which is performed in accordance with the actions of the second user. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The detection unit, The status of the task executed by the first user is detected, If the aforementioned task is not completed, the second terminal is notified to prompt the second user to take action. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The system includes a determination unit that determines whether or not the second user has performed an action. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

5. A method of information processing performed by a computer, A detection step that detects the transmission of a message from a second terminal used by the second user to a first terminal used by the first user as an action taken by the second user for the purpose of executing a task for the first user, A provision process that provides a reward to the second user in accordance with the actions of the second user, An information processing method characterized by including

6. On the computer, A detection procedure for detecting the sending of a message from a second terminal used by the second user to a first terminal used by the first user as an action taken by the second user to perform a task for the first user, A procedure for providing a reward to the second user in accordance with the actions of the second user, An information processing program characterized by causing the execution of [a specific action].

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