Changes in utterance frequency with long-term use of an information support robot for older adults with cognitive impairment living alone

This study aimed to elucidate the effect of introducing an information support robot on utterance frequency and confirm the change in utterance frequency after long-term use. We presented an information support robot installed with individualized content to three older adults with cognitive impairment who live alone at home or in an assisted living residence (mean age 83.7±SD 5.4 years). Changes in the participants' utterance frequency over six months following the intervention of long-term robot use in actual living spaces were quantitatively recorded and analyzed. Two participants' total utterance frequency maintained or improved. With robot intervention, the utterance frequency to the robot was maintained for six months. When the usability and satisfaction with the robot were high, the utterance frequency increased. These results suggest that users need to be provided with personalized information that is appropriate for their individual needs to use robots effectively over the long term. Information support robots have the potential for long-term use without inflicting boredom and may encourage more frequent interactions. Long-term use of such information support robots may help older adults to continue living autonomously and independently for longer. These findings may contribute to future efforts in supporting autonomous living.