JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Executive functions are essential for independently navigating nearly all of our daily activities. Executive dysfunction often occurs as a result of a neurodevelopmental disorder. Persons with executive dysfunction experience challenges regarding independent execution of daily tasks. Social robots might support persons with executive dysfunction to execute daily tasks and promote their feeling of independence.

Objective:

This study aimed to study the impact of interacting with social robot Tessa on goal attainment in execution of daily tasks and perceived independence of persons with executive dysfunction.

Methods:

In this mixed methods multiple case study, eighteen participant-caregiver couples were followed while using Tessa in the home environment for three months. Goal attainment on independently performing a self-determined goal was measured by the Goal Attainment Scale (GAS) and participant-caregiver couples were interviewed about how they experienced the interaction with Tessa and perceived her impact on their independence.

Results:

Eleven participants (61%) reached their goal after six weeks and maintained their goal after three months. Two participant-caregiver couples withdrew because of mismatch with Tessa. Participants set goals in the domains: execution of household tasks; intake of food, water or medication; being ready in time for an appointment; going to bed or getting out of bed on time; personal care; and exercise. Participants perceived that Tessa increased feeling of independence by generating more structure, stimulation and self-direction. Participant-caregiver couples reported that the auditive information provided by Tessa was more effective in coping with executive dysfunctioning compared to their initial approaches using visual information, and the use of Tessa had a positive impact on their relationship.

Conclusions:

This study paid ample time and attention to the implementation of a social robot in daily care practice. The encouraging findings are supporting the use of social robot Tessa for execution of daily tasks and increasing independence of persons with executive dysfunction in disability care. In using Tessa, a person-centred approach is essential. At the same time, Tessa facilitates the delivery of person-centred care.