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User-Centered Development of Humanoid Robots for Primary Care of Older Adults 

Shirvankar, CM*(2)(3), Emami, Elham(2), Abbasgholizadeh-Rahimi, S(1)(2)(3)(4)  

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(1) Department of Family Medicine, ÎÛÎÛ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ University  

(2) Faculty of Dental Medicine, ÎÛÎÛ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ University (Montreal, Canada)  

(3) Mila-Quebec AI Institute (Montreal, Canada)   

(4) Lady Davis Institute for Medical Research, Jewish General Hospital (Montreal, Canada)

Background: The aging global population poses significant challenges to healthcare systems, necessitating innovative solutions to support the health and well-being of the elderly. In 2021, Canada had around 7 million older individuals over 65, accounting for 19% of the total population. Older age increases the risk of illnesses and problems, including cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, neurological, and mental illnesses. Humanoid robotics offers a promising avenue for enhancing geriatric care by providing assistance, counselling and emergency support. However, successfully integrating these technologies requires a deep understanding of the end-users' needs and preferences. 

Objective: We aim to comprehensively understand the needs, preferences, and expectations of all stakeholders involved in the implementation of humanoid robots in primary geriatric care, and to develop and adapt a humanoid robot prototype that is both effective and acceptable to elderly users, caregivers, and providers in primary geriatric care settings. 

Methods: We use a systematic, user-centered design approach guided by principles of integrated knowledge translation. We first conduct semi-structured interviews to capture the overall identification of needs, expectations, and preferences regarding the use of humanoid robots. Interviews are audio-recorded and documented through field notes. We then adapt and design a humanoid robotic system based on the set of user requirements which emerged during the participatory investigations that involved patients, physicians and geriatricians from a long-term care centre (CHSLD) in Montreal.   

Results: The goal of this study is to evaluate if the target users accept the humanoid robotic system and also gather data on how to improve the system for ensuring added-value in primary care. The study is expected to reveal new needs that have not been previously identified. The iterative method based on a user-centered approach puts the end-users at the centre of the usability evaluation.