Homecare Robots to Improve Health and Well-Being in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Early Stage Dementia: Results From a Scoping Study

Abstract

ObjectivesThis scoping study is the first step of a multiphase, international project aimed at designing a homecare robot that can provide functional support, track physical and psychological well-being, and deliver therapeutic intervention specifically for individuals with mild cognitive impairment. DesignObservational requirements gathering study. Participants and settingsSemistructured interviews were conducted with 3 participant groups: (1) individuals with memory challenges, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), or mild dementia (patients; n = 9); (2) carers of those with MCI or dementia (carers; n = 8); and (3) those with expertise in MCI or dementia research, clinical care, or management (experts; n = 16). Interviews took place at the university, at dementia care facilities or other workplaces, at participant's homes, or via skype (experts only). MeasurementsSemistructured interviews were conducted, transcribed, and reviewed. ResultsSeveral key themes were identified within the 4 topics of: (1) daily challenges, (2) safety and security, (3) monitoring health and well-being, and (4) therapeutic intervention. ConclusionsA homecare robot could provide both practical and therapeutic benefit for the mildly cognitively impaired with 2 broad programs providing routine and reassurance; and tracking health and well-being. The next phase of the project aims to program homecare robots with scenarios developed from these results, integrate components from project partners, and then test the feasibility, utility, and acceptability of the homecare robot.