A feasibility and acceptability study of implementing a Collaborative service robot in long-term care

Service robots can offer personalized service for people with disabilities and empower the staff with efficient support. This study investigates using a collaborative service robot, Aether in a long-term care home. We work collaboratively with people living with disabilities, families, frontline staff, operation leaders, and industry) to Identify user experience, impact and challenges to inform future robot development and adoption. The study will be conducted through three phases: (1) Plan, (2) Adapt, and (3) Evaluate. We will recruit people with various disabilities, family members, and interdisciplinary staff. The focus will be on investigating the deployment process and lessons learned. The findings of this research will offer useful insights about user experiences, risk and mitigation strategies, and impact in LTC, in relation to adopting a robot (Aether) to support safety and quality of life in care homes.

Faculty Supervisor:

Lillian Hung

Student:

Partner:

JDQ Systems Inc;Developmental Disabilities Association

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: