The Impact of Real-World Interaction on the Perception of a Humanoid Social Robot in Care for Institutionalised Older Adults

Abstract

(1) Background: For the residents of long-term care (LTC) units, a humanoid social robot (HSR) may be not only a caregiver but also a companion. The aim of our study was to analyse changes in its perception following a real-world interaction; (2) Methods: One hundred LTC residents were assessed twice with the Godspeed Questionnaire Series (GQS): after viewing a photograph of HSR TIAGo only and after interacting with it in a practical manner. The perception parameters were evaluated on a scale of 1–5 in five series: I-Anthropomorphism, II-Animation, III-Likeability, IV-Perceived intelligence, and V-Perceived safety. (3) Results: In the post-interaction assessment of the TIAGo robot, no lower scores were observed relative to the first (photo-based) scoring. Positive changes were observed in III (p < 0.001), I (p < 0.01), II (p < 0.05), and IV (p < 0.05). In multivariable analysis, high levels of loneliness constituted a correlate for improvement after interaction in I (p < 0.05); computer skills—in III (p < 0.01), and GDS score corresponding to depression—in IV (p < 0.01). (4) Conclusions: Our study reveals a positive change in older people’s perception of an HSR after interacting with it. Interaction is thus an indispensable element in the development process. Developers and implementers should pay particular attention to the robot’s smart functions, movements, and responsiveness.