Purpose: This paper explores the ethical implications of applying Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics in eldercare, focusing on privacy, autonomy, emotional well-being, and equitable access. Study design/methodology/approach: The study used the Structure Topic Modelling (STM) technique to examine the textual data. Using the ProQuest database, trustworthy and genuine Internet news and blogs were collected. Findings: Key emerging themes using Structure Topic Modelling (STM) on 733 news articles and blogs comprised the following: Balancing AI-driven care with Human Empathy; Privacy and Data Security; Emotional Attachment and Social Isolation; Attitudes of the Society about AI Care; Costs and Accessibility of AI Care Solutions; Ethical Design and Transparency in AI Systems; Human–Robot Collaboration in Caregiving; and AI in Monitoring and Medical Interventions. These themes are mapped against the principlism theory as autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice. Originality/value: The uniqueness of this research lies in its approach because no previous study has combined structural topic modeling (STM) with the ethical framework of principlism to analyze the role of AI and robots in eldercare. Research limitations/implications: This study makes a vital theoretical contribution by bridging the ethical framework of principlism with the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and robotics in eldercare. It offers a new lens in assessing socio-technical AI and robotics, emphasizing cultural sensitivity, absence of bias, and transparency in the AI system. Practical implications (If any): Policymakers should primarily focus on establishing and effectively implementing ethical standards involving AI and robotics in senior care. Policymakers should also work toward the equal consumption of AI-assisted caring solutions by subsidizing and providing incentives to underrepresented groups. Therefore, the cultural adaptability of AI systems must be highlighted to make them more acceptable to society, particularly in the case of multicultural nations like India. Algorithmic design should be transparent and bias-free to develop trust and prevent discrimination between human caregivers and AI to maintain empathetic care delivery. These steps will help technology deployment to be responsible for the dignity and welfare of the elderly.