Exploring the Acceptance of Socially Assistive Robots by Older Adults in Care Institutions and Its Influencing Factors: Based on the Almere Model

Social assistive robots (SARs) are considered to have the potential to benefit older adults in nursing homes, but their acceptance among older adults remains unclear. This study investigated older adults' acceptance of SARs in Chinese nursing homes using an extended Almere model incorporating individual innovation theory and technophobia theory. A cross-sectional survey of 664 older adults from 11 institutions revealed relatively low acceptance (mean score 2.86 ± 0.96). Structural equation modeling revealed key determinants of older adults' acceptance of SARs. Perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, perceived enjoyment, and individual innovation directly and positively influenced their acceptance of SARs. Perceived adaptability, social presence, and perceived sociability had indirect positive effects on acceptance, while technological anxiety exerted an indirect negative effect. Tailoring SAR attributes to better meet older adults' needs may enhance acceptance.