Family Experience with Telepresence Robots in Long-Term Care
Author Information
Author(s): Hung Lillian, Hu Grace, Wong Joey, Ren Haopu (Lily), Mann Jim, Wong Lily
Primary Institution: University of British Columbia
Hypothesis
The study aims to examine the experiences of care partners who used telepresence robots with loved ones living in LTC settings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion
The study found that telepresence robots can enhance the caregiving experience for informal care partners.
Supporting Evidence
- Telepresence robots can decrease care partner burden.
- They facilitate the relationship between care partners and staff.
- Robots create relational autonomy for care partners.
- They expand the scope of what is possible in caregiving.
Takeaway
This study shows that robots can help family members feel more connected to their loved ones in nursing homes, especially during tough times like the pandemic.
Methodology
The study involved semi-structured interviews with care partners and thematic analysis to identify key themes.
Limitations
Further research is needed on the sustainability of robot implementation in diverse settings.
Participant Demographics
Care partners of residents in long-term care homes in British Columbia, Canada.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website