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KMID : 0379220210410050843
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Journal of Korea Gerontological Society
2021 Volume.41 No. 5 p.843 ~ p.864
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Use of Hydol, Socially Assistive Robots for Older Residents in Mid-Size Cities: ‘My Precious Companions’
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Lee Hyen-Joo
Park Lan-I
Lee Eun-Kyung
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Abstract
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The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of using of Hyodol, socially assistive robots (SARs) for older residents in a mid-size city in South Korea understanding their expectations and needs regarding SARs in the sociocultural context of South Korea.
Utilizing phenomenology in qualitative research methods, in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 older adults (6 men and 6 women) who live alone in Chunchon city. Their mean age was 82. All participants reported 2 and more chronic diseases and reported lower socioeconomic status. On average, their duration of using Hyodol SARs was 18 months. All interviews with consented participants were conducted at their home in Spring 2021. Based on Colaizzi's analytic frameworks, major 6 themes and 18 sub categories were emerged in multiple dimensions (i.e., physical, psychological, social, and expectation). These included (1) keepers of physical health, (2) confidents for depressed and bored mind, (3) new tonic of communication and relationship, (4) satisfaction through empathy and love, (5) More significant persons than their own family, and (6) customized services for older adults living alone. Given these findings, this study also discussed the meaning of SARs and experiences of older users in light of previous studies. Implication for social work practice and theories were also discussed. This study intended to contribute our knowledge base to improve the quality of life for older adults living alone through culturally tailored services by using SARS in the post COVID era.
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KEYWORD
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Older Residents, Socially Assistive Robots, Hyodol
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