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Care Robot ZORA in Dutch Nursing Homes; An Evaluation Study
Helianthe Kort1, Chantal Huisman1
1Utrecht University of Applied Sciences, Technology for Healthcare Innovations Research Group Utrecht, The Netherlands.
Studies in Health Technology and Informatics
|September 7, 2017
Summary
The ZORA robot, a social robot, was studied in 15 long-term care facilities to assess its use for resident entertainment and physical activity stimulation. This investigation focused on the robot
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Robotics
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Social robots are increasingly explored for elder care applications.
- Long-term care facilities seek innovative methods to enhance resident well-being and engagement.
- The ZORA robot is designed for social interaction and activity stimulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the integration and impact of the ZORA social robot in long-term care settings.
- To assess the robot's effectiveness in providing pleasure, entertainment, and physical activity for older residents.
Main Methods:
- A study was conducted across 15 long-term care facilities.
- The ZORA robot was implemented from May 2016 to November 2016.
- Observations focused on resident interaction with the robot for entertainment and physical stimulation.
Main Results:
- The ZORA robot was utilized in 15 facilities for older adults.
- The robot served purposes of pleasure, entertainment, and physical activity stimulation.
- Data was collected over a six-month period (May-November 2016).
Conclusions:
- The ZORA robot shows potential as a tool for enhancing social engagement and activity in long-term care.
- Further research is warranted to quantify the specific benefits and optimize the use of social robots for the elderly.