Acceptance and evaluation of social interaction through telepresence robots

The age structure of modern industrial societies such as Germany is subject to constant demographic change. People are getting older and their percentage of the population is growing. Along with rising life expectancy, there is also an increase in physical and psychosocial impairments. In terms of human-technology interaction, the consequences of higher life expectancy and the often limited personal care options available from professionals or family members call for innovative solutions. Telepresence robots are one such innovation in the age-specific context and can help older people maintain their independence, mobility and social participation. This paper aims to take stock of older people's attitudes towards this technical possibility, specifically illustrated by the acceptance and evaluation of social interactions when using a telepresence robot.