Companion robots for older people: importance of user-centred design demonstrated through observations and focus groups comparing preferences of older people and roboticists in South West England.

ABSTRACT: OBJECTIVE:Companion robots, such as Paro, may reduce agitation and depression for older people with dementia. However, contradictory research outcomes suggest robot design is not always optimal. While many researchers suggest user-centred design is important, there is little evidence on the difference this might make. Here, we aimed to assess its importance by comparing companion robot design perceptions between older people (end users) and roboticists (developers). DESIGN:Older people and roboticists interacted with eight companion robots or alternatives at two separate events in groups of two to four people. Interactions were recorded, participants' comments and observations were transcribed, and content was analysed. Subsequently, each group participated in focus groups on perceptions o

SUBMITTER: Bradwell HL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6773331 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature