Ten robots went on this mission in ATK Seniorit Mukanetti ry, including Nao, Pepper, Misty, QT, Spot, Paro, Qoobo, Moflin, Bird, and Cat. Each robot had its own role and tasks in the station-based activities. For example, QT welcomed participants as a receptionist, while Nao acted as an exercise guide demonstrated different movements. The two-hour session began with an introduction to the study, followed by the station-based robot activities, and finally wrapped up with a group interview. Seven participants aged 70 to 97 took part in the study. Our goal was to understand older adults’ experiences of exercising with different physically embodied social robots. We were particularly interested in how social robots can support older adults in physical activity in a fun and enjoyable way!
The activities were planned together with Mukanetti staff, with an important principle in mind: older adults could participate in the way they felt comfortable. For example, older adults could learn to operate the robots, move along with the robots, or simply observe from the side. The physical activities were also adaptable to different abilities and preferences. Participants can perform the exercises either standing or sitting, and the exercises were kept at a light intensity, including stretching, Tai Chi, and picking up tennis balls from the floor. Throughout the activities, there were great discussion about robotics, including older adults’ thought about AI, how AI could be integrated into social robots, and what kinds of exercise they might enjoy doing with robots in the future, e.g., salsa dancing!
One participant shared: “I would prefer to follow a robot, don’t feel the tension. No need to compare to a teacher, one does not compare oneself to a robot.” While another said: “It was unclear to me when it put its arms up what should I do. But if I had this on a regular basis then I would understand.” Mukanetti staff further pointed out that robots’ reaction is important, as it gives an indicator during the interaction. During the study, we observed that while older adults interacted with Pepper, its vibrant dancing and music, as well as laughter after being tickled, successfully raised interest in robot interaction and filled the room with a positive atmosphere. The robots reported back: mission accomplished! They left smiles on the faces of older adults and a heartwarming feeling among human researchers. 🙂
Written by Chia from Robostudio, activity facilitated by Aino, Salla, and ATK Mukanetti staff
