An explorative study on robotics for supporting children with Autism Spectrum Disorder during clinical procedures

This short report presents a small-scale explorative study about children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) interaction with robots during clinical interactions. This is part of an ongoing project, which aims at defining a robotic service for supporting children with developmental disabilities and increase the efficiency of routine procedures that may create distress, e.g.having blood taken or an orthopaedic plaster cast applied. Five children with confirmed diagnoses of ASD interacted with two social robots: the small humanoid NAO and the pet-like MiRo. The encounters mixed play activities with a simulated clinical procedure. We included parents/carers in the interaction to ensure the child was comfortable and at ease. The results of video analysis and parents' feedback confirm possible benefits of the physical presence of robots to reduce children’s anxiety and increase compliance with instructions. Parents/carers convincingly support the introduction of robots in hospital procedures to their help children

Robot Companions and Sensors for Better Living: Defining Needs to Empower Low Socio-economic Older Adults at Home

Population ageing has profound implications for economies and societies, demanding increased health and social services. The global older adult population is steadily growing, presenting challenges. Addressing this reality, investing in older adults’ healthcare means enhancing their well-being while minimizing expenditures. Strategies aim to support older adults at home, but resource disparities pose challenges. Importantly, socio-economic factors influence peoples’ quality of life and wellbeing, thus they are associated with specific needs. Socially Assistive Robots (SARs) and monitoring technologies (wearable and environmental sensors) hold promise in aiding daily life, with older adults showing willingness to embrace them, particularly if tailored to their needs. Despite research on perceptions of technology, the preferences and needs of socio-economically disadvantaged older adults remain underexplored. This study investigates how SARs and sensor technologies can aid low-income older adults, promoting independence and overall well-being. For this purpose, older adults (aged ≥ 65 years) with low income were recruited, and a series of focus groups were conducted to comprehend how these technologies could address their needs. Thematic analysis results highlighted five key dimensions, specifically: 1) promote and monitor an active lifestyle, 2) help with daily errands and provide physical assistance, 3) reduce isolation and loneliness, 4) considerations regarding monitoring technologies, and 5) barriers affecting SARs and monitoring technologies usage and acceptance. These dimensions should be considered during SARs and sensors design to effectively meet users’ requirements, enhance their quality of life, and support caregivers