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<p>This study investigates the dual impacts of anthropomorphic relationships formed between older adults living alone and companion robots, drawing on qualitative data from users of <i>Hyodol</i>, a grandchild-shaped care robot distributed in South Korea. Using grounded theory, four subcategories of anthropomorphism were identified: emotional warmth and attachment, dialog and emotional empathy, cognitive and practical competence, and reciprocity and mutual care. Findings reveal that anthropomorphism can simultaneously deliver emotional support, social engagement, cognitive stimulation, and autonomy enhancement, while also introducing risks such as excessive dependence, frustration, and anxiety regarding mutual care. These dual outcomes reinforce the importance of context-sensitive robot design and deployment, informed by longitudinal, user-centered research. The study offers practical recommendations for adaptive interaction features, mutual care facilitation, and ethical safeguards for the well-being of older adults while respecting their dignity and autonomy. This research contributes nuanced empirical analysis to guide the responsible development of companion robots in aging societies.</p>

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Dual impacts of anthropomorphic relationships with companion robots at home for older adults: evidence from Hyodol users in South Korea

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年4月8日

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  • Guiohk Lee,
  • Seunghye Sohn,
  • Hyunsun Yoon

摘要

This study investigates the dual impacts of anthropomorphic relationships formed between older adults living alone and companion robots, drawing on qualitative data from users of Hyodol, a grandchild-shaped care robot distributed in South Korea. Using grounded theory, four subcategories of anthropomorphism were identified: emotional warmth and attachment, dialog and emotional empathy, cognitive and practical competence, and reciprocity and mutual care. Findings reveal that anthropomorphism can simultaneously deliver emotional support, social engagement, cognitive stimulation, and autonomy enhancement, while also introducing risks such as excessive dependence, frustration, and anxiety regarding mutual care. These dual outcomes reinforce the importance of context-sensitive robot design and deployment, informed by longitudinal, user-centered research. The study offers practical recommendations for adaptive interaction features, mutual care facilitation, and ethical safeguards for the well-being of older adults while respecting their dignity and autonomy. This research contributes nuanced empirical analysis to guide the responsible development of companion robots in aging societies.