Exploring fear in human-robot interaction: a scoping review of older adults' experiences with social robots.

ABSTRACT:

Background

As global populations age, healthcare and social systems face mounting pressure to provide effective support for older adults. Social robots have emerged as promising tools to enhance companionship, cognitive engagement, and daily assistance. However, fear of robots among older adults remains a critical barrier to adoption.

Objective

This scoping review examined how fear manifests in human-robot interaction (HRI), what factors contribute to these reactions, and how they influence technology acceptance.

Methods

A systematic search of six major databases (PubMed, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) identified studies published between January 2014 and March 2025. Following PRISMA-ScR guidelines, 49 studies were included, en

SUBMITTER: Elsheikh A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12554585 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature