Effects of robot-assisted activity using a communication robot in elderly individuals

Abstract

Robot-assisted activity (RAA) is a countermeasure for mental health problems among the elderly by providing pleasure and relaxation through interaction with robots. To clarify the immediate effects of RAA with a communication robot on elderly people. This study included12elderly women with no orthopedic or nervous system disorders, motor deficits, or sensory disorders. Participants received5minutes of RAA using a communication robot, and their neurophysiological indices were assessed. Emotions and mood states were measured following RAA. Moreover, resting­state EEG activity as indicated by alpha power, beta power, and the relative power index (alpha/beta) was assessed on Fz and Pz before and after RAA. Our results demonstrate that participants felt more positive emotions and mood states, such as “warm”and “fun,”after RAA. However, the resting­ state brain activity of the participants did not change after RAA. This study suggests that RAA with a communication robot modulates psychological factors in elderly women. Thus,RAA with a communication robot may be useful in supporting the mental health of elderly women.