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Design Attributes of Socially Assistive Robots for People with Dementia: A Systematic Review

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Abstract

Socially assistive robots (SARs) have shown promise in the care of people with dementia and in mitigating behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. Although SARs are continually tested for efficacy, no current literature outlines a comprehensive strategy that industrial designers may employ to progress the technology of SARs. It was, therefore, essential to expand on existing literature by providing a straightforward approach to SAR design with the recommended design attributes. A systematic review was conducted to formulate recommendations for designing SARs to improve the quality of life of people with dementia. Six databases, including CINAHL, Embase, IEEE, Medline, ProQuest, and Scopus, were searched for relevant articles published between 2011 and 2022. Covidence software was used for screening, data extraction and quality testing. Of the 160 references extracted, 16 studies met the study inclusion criteria. The studies were predominately small sample sizes using various robotic platforms and technologies. Incorporating personal preferences linked to a user’s life experience and choice is a crucial ability of SARs. Natural speech communication is also an important design attribute. However, the overwhelming conclusion is that more research is needed on aesthetics, materials, and interaction capabilities. All stakeholders should be part of a holistic user-centred design process to ensure a fit-for-purpose product.

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Data Availability

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Acknowledgements

A PhD scholarship from Griffith University supported this work.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia

    Matthew Green & Dzung Dao

  2. Menzies Health Institute Queensland, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia

    Matthew Green & Wendy Moyle

  3. School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Queensland, Australia

    Wendy Moyle

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Correspondence to Wendy Moyle.

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MG and WM conceived and designed the systematic review. MG and WM completed the title and abstract screening and full-text review. MG and WM completed the quality appraisal. MG undertook data extraction of the papers, and WM confirmed the data extraction. MG wrote the draft manuscript, and WM reviewed and provided a critical contribution to the manuscript. All authors read, provided critical comments, and approved the final manuscript. The authors declare they have no conflict of interest.

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Green, M., Dao, D. & Moyle, W. Design Attributes of Socially Assistive Robots for People with Dementia: A Systematic Review. Int J of Soc Robotics 16, 415–427 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12369-023-01087-w

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