Social robots have significantly advanced in capabilities and availability, gradually becoming part of everyday life. Their new interactive features are relevant to the struggling care sector. As Western societies age, the demand for care services rises, yet the workforce does not grow at the same rate. This book explores the potential of social robots to support the workforce and enhance the well-being of residents in care homes.
Using a socio-informatics approach, this research investigates how residents and caregivers interact with social robots, examines and facilitates their appropriation, and provides insights into the development of the robots' software and hardware. The research and development were carried out collaboratively in care homes with the people who work and live there.
The findings indicate that social robots can be beneficial in care homes. They broaden the options for social care workers and, when integrated into daily routines, can provide brief respite periods. Additionally, they positively impact residents by engaging them in cognitive and physical activities. However, the robots can only assist, and not replace, care workers.