Evaluating Telepresence Robot for Supporting Formal and Informal Caregivers in the Care Support Service: A Six-Month Case Study

Laura Fiorini, Jasmine Pani, Erika Rovini, Lara Toccafondi, Novella Calamida, Gianna Vignani, Filippo Cavallo

Abstract: Many older adults are living socially isolated. Telepresence robots could aid older people in supporting independent living and facilitate social interaction. The present study investigates the usability and acceptability of telepresence technology by older adults and their formal and informal caregivers over the course of 6 months. Secondly, the evaluation of the telepresence robot compared to video-calling using a smart TV. Lastly, how informal and formal caregivers perceived the two systems. We found that at the beginning of the study the telepresence robot was not deemed usable compared to the TV by older adults, however the usability increased, whereas the TV decreased after 6 months. Regarding acceptability, the telepresence robot was scored higher than the TV in terms of usefulness, intention to use, enjoyment and trustworthiness in all three groups. Additionally, formal caregivers expressed that the older adults felt more secure, independent and in contact with loved ones, the operator felt that the older adults did not need their physical presence to interact with technology and that their job was helped by having more contact with his/her assisted. Overall, this study suggested that although the perceived usability by older adults might be negative at the beginning, after 6 months the telepresence robot could positively impact the lives of older adults and their caregivers.