Real-Time Feedback on Older Adults Exercise: A Socially Assistive Robot Coaching System

Abstract

Physical exercise is crucial for promoting and maintaining the health of middle-aged and older adults. As the elderly population grows, effective coaching methods are increasingly necessary. Most current coaching systems lack clear reactive and objective feedback options. This study introduces a multimodal system featuring a socially assistive robot that guides individuals through exercise routines while providing encouragement and feedback. The system includes a heart rate sensor and physical motion monitoring, allowing the robot to offer real-time suggestions based on user performance. A graphical interface mirrors the user’s movements and displays information on heart rate, kinematic data, scores, and next steps. This study evaluates the performance of two robots (NAO and Pepper). It investigates whether different robot embodi-ments—such as physical appearance and size—influence users’ perceptions through a within-subjects approach. Questions from the Robotic Social Attribute Scales (ROSaS) assessed users’ feelings of competence, warmth, and discomfort towards the robots. Elements from the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) measured performance expectation, effort expectancy, and social influence. Nineteen adults aged over 40 completed a series of upper-limb exercises. Both robots effectively communicated the exercises and corrected participants’ movements. Participants found the system engaging and anticipated that it would be well-received by others, regardless of the robot used.