Beyond Assistance: Robots Aligned with Older Adults' Values

As robots increasingly play a role in addressing population aging, one of their key roles is to align with older adults' values. Prior work in HRI often considers robots as assistive devices for aging. However, this approach presents a critical gap: it may overlook older adults' values, leaving their voices unheard in defining how they wish to be assisted by robots and for what intention. Through Value-Sensitive Design and exploring human intentions regarding robot interactions, we imagine a future where robots not only assist but also adapt to people's desires by understanding their values. In that future, HRI methodologies will promote human values into robot design, helping individuals achieve their intentions and goals while aligning with their values. This value-sensitive approach has the potential to revolutionize the relationship between older adults and robots, fostering a future where technology is a true reflection of human diversity and individuality.