Health Professional and Workers Attitudes Towards the Use of Social Robots for Older Adults in Long-Term Care

Abstract

The aim of this study was (a) to modify, translate and validate the Chinese version of attitudes towards the use of social robot (ATTUSR-C) questionnaire for use with Taiwanese health personnel; and (b) investigate the attitudes of Taiwanese health personnel in long-term care towards the use of social robots for older adults. The attitudes of health personnel towards social robots can affect the acceptability of social robots for older adults. An investigation of health personnel’s ATTUSRs and the development of a validated Chinese questionnaire is needed. A cross-sectional design was used to conduct this multi-phase study. Data collection was from November 2017 to May 2018. Content validity, internal consistency reliability, and factor analysis of the ATTUSR-C questionnaire were evaluated. Purposive sampling was used. All recruited participants received an email containing study information and a URL link to the survey. The ATTUSR-C questionnaire had good validity and reliability. A total of 416 health professionals responded to the online survey. Most health personnel had positive ATTUSRs in long-term care facilities as they viewed social robots as beneficial and practical in psychosocial care for older adults. Positive ATTUSRs can increase acceptance and utilisation of social robots. This study strives to support nursing work by providing insights into health personnel’s perceptions of social robots, in order to integrate social robots into the care and lives of older adults.