Meet Robear, The Robotic Japanese Bear-Nurse

Japan has found a technologically innovative and adorable solution to an impending crisis, as they are wont to do.

Research institute Riken has developed a robotic nurse with the face of a non-threatening bear to assist healthcare workers.

Obviously, they've named it the Robear.

According to the ABC, Japan's population of elderly people is growing faster than the current healthcare system can keep up with, due to the nation's low birth rate and citizens' increasing life expectancy.

With fewer young people to take their places, Japan's workforce looks set to be reduced by half in 2060.

In steps Robear with the assist, at least in hospitals.

Robear can lift patients from their bed or wheelchair and support those who are unsteady on their feet, as this video demonstrates.

Based on a 2011 model - christened RIBA - this new creation is 90kg lighter and, importantly, way cuter.

Research leader Toshiharu Mukai said "the polar cub-like look is aimed at radiating an atmosphere of strength, geniality and cleanliness at the same time."

Commercial versions of Robear are intended to hit the market in "the not too distant future," so start saving up.