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Perspectives on a telepresence robot at an independent living facility: lessons learned and implications

Sajay Arthanat (Department of Occupational Therapy, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA)
Hannah Rossignol (Portsmouth Regional Hospital, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, USA)
Elizabeth Preble (Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy Services, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA)
Kali Grimm (Department of Occupational Therapy, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA)
Marguerite Corvini (Center for Digital Health Innovation, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA)
John Wilcox (Department of Occupational Therapy, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA)
Semra Aytur (Department of Health Management and Policy, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA)
Marcy Doyle (Institute on Health Policy and Practice, University of New Hampshire, Durham, New Hampshire, USA)

Journal of Enabling Technologies

ISSN: 2398-6263

Article publication date: 14 November 2023

Issue publication date: 21 February 2024

109

Abstract

Purpose

Telepresence robots have gained prominence as a novel technological modality for mobile videoconferencing. Although the technology has mass appeal in the realm of telehealth and patient–health provider communication, its integration in community living settings for older adults has not been extensively studied. The aim of this study was to gather the perspectives of residents, trainers and staff at a retirement facility on their experience with a telepresence robot during and following a five-week wellness program.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed semi-structured interviews with ten stakeholders who were involved in the wellness program followed by a qualitative content analysis of the data. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology served as the interview framework to explore the facilitators and barriers to the implementation of the robot.

Findings

Independent coding of the data by the study investigators identified discrete as well as interconnected categories among the stakeholders. Residents expressed their changing ideation of the robot, affinity toward the technology, preference for human connection and future value. Perspectives of the trainers, the fellow residents (ambassadors) and staff pertained to their need for increased engagement, growing comfort with the technology, usability challenges and importance of coordination and training.

Originality/value

Older adults' outlook and comfort with telepresence robots improve with continuing exposure to the technology for healthcare and social connectivity needs. However, in-person care is also preferred initially and periodically to engage with their health providers meaningfully and effectively via the robot. To address long term feasibility and usability, the authors propose a hierarchical approach when integrating telepresence robots in community living facilities for older adults. Information technology education, staff training and reliable internet connectivity are the precursors to optimizing the value and perceived usefulness of the technology.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

This research was supported by the Advanced Nursing Education and Workforce Initiative, Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of an award totaling $2.8 million dollars with percentage financed with nongovernmental sources. The contents are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement, by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.

Citation

Arthanat, S., Rossignol, H., Preble, E., Grimm, K., Corvini, M., Wilcox, J., Aytur, S. and Doyle, M. (2024), "Perspectives on a telepresence robot at an independent living facility: lessons learned and implications", Journal of Enabling Technologies, Vol. 18 No. 1, pp. 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1108/JET-05-2023-0014

Publisher

:

Emerald Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2023, Emerald Publishing Limited

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