Honda’s latest Asimo iteration made a successful debut / return to the public realm in Tokyo as the Japanese heavyweight is still committed to building upon the nascent market (interest) that it generated when it was initially released 12 years ago (which at that time was viewed as more of a gimmick than a practical-use application).
In retrospect, robotic technology could have proven extremely beneficial as part of the disaster relief for the crippled Fukushima reactor; however, it simply wasn’t available / ready via the present AI capabilities. That said, leaving natural disasters aside, as the OECD nations continue to age robotics could play a growing role regarding health care (for example, addressing limitations with mobility and/or basic geriatric assistance are two possible options that come to mind). And, if mechanical dexterity and/or AI, etc. are further developed / geared towards providing this sort of support there’s no reason why it might not become a viable option to consider.
(Source) CNET: http://goo.gl/eam0r