Integrated Home Service Robots for Ageing in Place: A Multi-Stakeholder Perspective on Acceptance and Care Needs in Taiwan
TL;DR
It is suggested that HSRs should be designed as assistive tools that fit everyday care practices, domestic space, and existing family relationships rather than as replacements for human care.
Abstract
As population ageing and ageing in place become increasingly important, home service robots (HSRs) have been discussed as potential support for domestic care. However, HSR acceptance in home settings involves not only older adults, but also family members and care workers. This study explores multi-stakeholder needs and concerns regarding HSRs in Taiwan through semi-structured interviews with six information-rich participants: two older adults, two family members, and two care workers. Findings show that stakeholders valued practical functions such as medication reminders, health monitoring, safety alerts, and support for daily routines. However, acceptance differed by role. Care workers emphasized workflow fit and early risk detection, family members valued reassurance and remote support, while older adults stressed autonomy, control, privacy, and low operational burden. The study suggests that HSRs should be designed as assistive tools that fit everyday care practices, domestic space, and existing family relationships rather than as replacements for human care.