Components of geriatric nursing robot for Korean elderly : Based on the Focus Group Interview

The purpose of this study was to explore the components of the geriatric robot pet, which might be helpful in caring for elderly people in the future. Focus group interview-with two focus groups-was performed between August 2014 and December 2014. Study participants were 13 geriatric experts from nursing, medicine, social work, and physical/occupational therapy. All interview data were transcribed, followed by debriefing and a qualitative content analysis. Three main themes emerged: acknowledgment of the usefulness of geriatric robot pet, establishment of elderly-centered appearance, and the functions of the robot pet to meet the needs of elders and family members. The robot pet was considered to be useful to elders who live alone since they can benefit from companionship and care provided by the robot pet. Geriatric robot pet needs to be manageable in size and weight, like a small dog. Moreover, a function that allows for interaction with and monitoring the elderly would be beneficial. The baseline elements that could guide further development of contents for the Korean geriatric robot pet were proposed from the results of FGI. Studies that validate these elements are necessary.