Elders’ Expectations and Experiences with a Companion-Type Social Robot: Ethical Implications
This research article investigates elders' expectations and experiences with a companion-type social robot named Pleo through an empirical study involving 33 participants. The study assesses both anticipated and fulfilled capabilities, as well as the impact on elders living independently or with assistance in community or nursing home environments. Findings reveal that while positive therapeutic and enjoyable effects were noted, negative outcomes such as undue responsibility, fading enjoyment, or anger and frustration also occurred.
Summary and content fields are drawn from the document text and are pending editorial review.
Who issued it
Who it governs
Researchers and professionals studying the ethical and practical implications of social robots in elder care.
What the document contains
The empirical evaluation of elders' expectations and subsequent experiences with a social robot, focusing on capabilities, life impacts, and ethical implications.
Regulatory frameworks, binding governance policies, or enforcement mechanisms for social robot deployment.
- Companion-type social robots are evaluated by elders regarding expectations and actual experiences over a two-week interaction period.
- Elders frequently expected the robot to behave almost like a living being.
- Differences were observed between elders living independently and those with assistance regarding anticipated fun and enjoyment.
- Negative effects such as undue responsibility, fading of enjoyment, and frustration were reported by participants.
Not stated
How it scores
Each score is backed by a quote verified against the document text. Editorial review has not yet confirmed them.
Accountability
0/5Clear responsibility for AI outcomes
Abstract
screening score · 2026-10-23
Fairness
2/5Non-discrimination and equitable treatment
thereby also targeting in differences between elders living independently and with assistance
Abstract
screening score · 2026-10-23
Human Dignity
2/5Respect for the inherent worth of persons
Negative effects like undue responsibility, fading of enjoyment, or anger and frustration were not uncommon.
Abstract
screening score · 2026-10-23
Human Oversight
0/5Humans remain in control of consequential decisions
Abstract
screening score · 2026-10-23
Privacy
0/5Protection of personal data and private life
Abstract
screening score · 2026-10-23
Transparency
0/5Openness about how AI systems work and are used
Abstract
screening score · 2026-10-23
Enforcement
0/5Consequences and compliance mechanisms with real force
Abstract
screening score · 2026-10-23
Impact Assessment
3/5Required assessment of an AI system's risks/impacts before or during use
Expectations regarding a) the robot’s capabilities, and b) the robot’s impact on elders’ lives were assessed beforehand by means of open-ended interview questions.
Abstract
screening score · 2026-10-23