Investigating the Potential and Impacts of Social Robots to Engage People with Advanced Dementia and their Caregivers: Early Insights from an Exploratory Ethnographic Study within a Protected Care Environment

Abstract

This paper presents the outcomes of an exploratory study that examined the social impact of a social robot with a suite of different robotic-based exergames for people with dementia and their caregivers. Qualitative data was collected over a period of two months, during which time we explored the daily life of 12 people with advanced dementia and their social and professional caregivers. We focus on the experiential aspects of the system and examine its social impact when integrated into the daily routines of both people with dementia themselves and their care-ecosystem. Our findings indicate that the use of social robots could provide a socio-emotional value for people living with advanced dementia in terms of variety and engagement in meaningful and playful activities. Results suggest that the system enhanced social-interaction, invigorated relationships, and improved the empowerment of people with dementia and their caregivers to face daily challenges.