Robots for Inter-generational Interactions: Implications for Nonfamilial Community Settings

Social robots have been designed to engage with older adults and children separately, but their use for inter-generational (IG) interactions, especially in nonfamilial settings, has not been studied. In addition to the challenge of simultaneously meeting the varied needs and preferences of older adults and children, the dynamic nature of these settings makes the use of robots for IG activities difficult. This paper presents a first exploratory study meant to inform the design and use of social robots for IG activities in nonfamilial settings by analyzing interviews and observations conducted at a co-located preschool and assisted living-dementia care center. Interactions occurring with and around robots were analyzed, particularly focusing on whether they fulfill the community's goals of providing children and older adults with engaging opportunities for IG contact. Findings suggest integrating intermittent pauses and breaks in interactions with the robot and unstructured collaborative robot-assisted activities can meet the needs of both generations, and call for greater community involvement in HRI for IG research.