Telepresence robots: Encouraging interactive communication between family carers and people with dementia

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to explore the feasibility of using telepresence robots to encourage interactive communication in dementia care, from the perspective of family carers. METHODS: Qualitative findings from semi-structured interviews with six family carers. RESULTS: Generally, family carers reported a feeling of presence and connectedness when talking to their family member via the telepresence robots. They reported the robots as helping to enhance longer conversations and social connection with their family member. CONCLUSION: Telepresence may offer potential to encourage social connection, in particular where families are unable to make regular visits to the nursing home.