Robots in Care Homes Linked to Outcomes Study Reveals
With the growing challenges of an ageing population and high employee turnover, care homes are increasingly turning to robotic technologies to assist in daily tasks.
While the role of robots in care settings often sparks debate, a new study has shed light on their potential to enhance both worker satisfaction and the quality of care provided to residents.
The research, conducted by experts on the future of work, highlights how robots are driving positive outcomes, including improved staff retention, greater productivity, and better care standards.
The study focused on data from Japanese nursing homes collected in 2020 and 2022. Japan, known as a “super-ageing society,” offers a glimpse of the future for other countries facing similar demographic shifts. With a shrinking working-age population and a rising number of elderly citizens, Japan has been a pioneer in integrating robots into care settings.
“We need to prepare for a new reality where the demand for senior care far outpaces the available workforce,” explained lead researcher Yong Suk Lee, an associate professor at the University of Notre Dame.
In the UK, this shift is already underway. As the National Office for Statistics projects continued growth in the over-65 population, innovative solutions such as robotics may become increasingly essential.
Types of Robots Making a Difference
The study identified three types of robots commonly used in nursing homes:
- Transfer Robots – Assisting care workers in lifting, moving, and repositioning residents, easing physical strain on staff.
- Mobility Robots – Helping residents maintain independence by supporting movement and bathing.
- Monitoring and Communication Robots – Equipped with technologies like sensors and computer vision, these robots track residents’ movements and health data, sharing critical insights with caregivers.
One of the most significant findings was the link between robot use and staff retention. Care workers, often plagued by physical strain and low wages, found relief from physically demanding tasks with the aid of robots. This reduction in strain was associated with a drop in quit rates, addressing a long-standing challenge in the care sector.
However, the study noted that while overall employment increased, the use of robots created a higher demand for part-time and less experienced staff, potentially reducing reliance on more experienced workers.
Residents also experienced notable benefits. Facilities adopting robotic technologies reported fewer cases of pressure ulcers and a decline in the use of restraints. These outcomes suggest that robots can improve patient mobility and overall comfort, key indicators of quality care.
Rather than replacing human workers, the study found that robots allow caregivers to focus on tasks requiring human empathy, dexterity, and connection.
“Robots can take on routine physical tasks, enabling care workers to provide more meaningful, person-centred care,” said Lee. “This shift not only boosts productivity but also enhances the overall experience for residents.”
As care homes across the UK grapple with workforce challenges and rising demand for services, this research offers valuable guidance. By integrating robots thoughtfully, care providers can support their staff, improve outcomes for residents, and navigate the complexities of an ageing population.
The findings provide a roadmap for embracing technology in the care sector, ensuring it benefits both workers and the individuals they serve.