Implementation strategies for the use of social robotics in the context of dementia

Abstract

Introduction Dementia is a global health challenge, and the number of people living with dementia (PLWD) is expected to continue to rise worldwide. Pet robots have been developed to support the psychosocial well-being of PLWD. Although the existing body of research suggests that pet robots can have positive impacts on the psychosocial health of PLWD in long-term care settings, there is a critical lack of knowledge to support the translation of pet robots into real-world practice. Previous research has identified some barriers to their uptake, one of which is their affordability. With technology development, lower-cost alternatives have emerged in more recent years. The affordability of lower-cost alternatives may address cost-related implementation barriers. However, there has been no reviews which have broadly examined the literature to understand the impact of low-cost pet robots on PLWD. In addition, no previous studies have explicitly investigated the multi-level barriers and facilitators affecting their adoption in long-term care settings. Furthermore, there is limited guidance in the existing literature on how pet robots can be implemented in routine dementia care.