Factors related to the effectiveness in the use of an ICT-based toy robot for the in-home care of community dwelling elderly

Abstract

Objectives: This study sought to assess the effectiveness of information and communications technology(ICT)-based socially assistive robot for the in-home care of dwelling elderly. Methods: Participants of the study were 42 elders (65 years or older) from Chuncheon City, South Korea. The study compared the improvements in the emotional functions and life management activities of the participants before and after using the toy robot. Results: The depression scores of participants were significantly lower after using the toy robots (OR=0.316, 95% CI:0.138-0.726), as well life management activities were improved (OR=22.144, 95% CI:10.501-46.697). Participants displayed a high level of intent for the consistent use of the robot (2.29 points out of 3 points). Differences in the intent of consistently use of robots were found between the group, such as age, living status, and time spent alone. Notably, participants aged 80 years and older, who lived and spent more time alone, showed a high level of intent for consistent use of the toy robot. Conclusions: ICT-based socially assistive toy robots were found to play an effective role in providing emotional support and assistance in the life management activities of elderly participants. These robots may be an effective tool in elderly home care.