We learned from 2 highly innovative, RCT-based studies
1
,
2
published in your journal that if a companion robot or “interactive surfaces” technology
is introduced into the care mix, older people smile and socialize more frequently,
become more active and talkative, and their Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms
of Dementia (BPSD) decreased. Others
3
,
4
,
5
similarly report positive impacts. But how can we measure the impacts of robotics-aided
care on older people's quality of life? In order to answer this question, Japanese
researchers designed a study, using the International Classification of Functioning,
Disabilities and Health (ICF). The ICF, developed by the World Health Organization,
is now regarded as the most encompassing taxonomic model for looking at one's functioning
and disability from a universal accessibility perspective.
6
,
7
The ICF has been widely used in the curriculum of social care professionals in Japan.Towards a Common Language for Functioning, Disability and Health ICF, WHO/EIP/GPE/CAS/01.3. Available at: http://www.who.int/classifications/icf/training/icfbeginnersguide.pdf. Accessed January 18, 2018.
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References
- Use of a robotic seal as a therapeutic tool to improve dementia symptoms: A cluster-randomized controlled trial.J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2017; 18: 766-773
- A pilot randomized trial of a companion robot for people with dementia living in the community.J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2017; 18: 871-878
- Effects on symptoms of agitation and depression in persons with dementia participating in robot-assisted activity: A cluster-randomized controlled trial.J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2015; 16: 867-873
- The psychosocial effects of a companion robot: A randomized controlled trial.J Am Med Dir Assoc. 2013; 14: 661-667
- Robotics to enable older adults to remain living at home.J Aging Res. 2012; 2012: 538169
- The International Classification of functioning, disability and Health: A systematic review of observational studies.Rev Bras Epidemiol. 2014; 17: 437-451
Towards a Common Language for Functioning, Disability and Health ICF, WHO/EIP/GPE/CAS/01.3. Available at: http://www.who.int/classifications/icf/training/icfbeginnersguide.pdf. Accessed January 18, 2018.
- Examination of practicability of communication robot-assisted activity program for elderly people.J Robot Mechatron. 2011; 23: 3-12
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Footnotes
K.O., N.K., and S.M. declare an equal contribution.
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© 2018 AMDA - The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Medicine.
