Would you trust a robot to take care of you in old age? A new study by AI experts from the University of Oxford and University of Melbourne reveals that men are more likely than women to embrace the idea of robotic care when they’re infirm or elderly.
Beyond gender, other factors also shape shape people’s willingness to rely on technology for elderly care. these include education, job type, and local welfare conditions
KEY FINDINGS ON ROBOTIC CARE
The study analyzed attitudes in 28 European countries, uncovering important trends:
- Men Lead in Openness to Robotic Care;
Men are generally more accepting of robotic assistance for their own care compared to women. - Education and Occupation Matter
People with higher education levels and those in professional or managerial jobs are more supportive of using robots for elderly care. - Age and Familiarity with Robots Influence Acceptance
Younger individuals and those with prior experience using robots—either at home or work—are more open to the idea of robotic caregiving. - Community and Economic Context Shape Attitudes
In communities where women’s employment is high and spending on elder care is low, residents are more likely to consider robotic care as a viable option.
THE ROLE OF LOCAL CONTEXT
Professor Leah Ruppanner from the University of Melbourne emphasizes the importance of local context:
“Communities with higher female employment and limited elder care funding are more open to robots providing care. Where governments invest heavily in elder care, people are less comfortable with robotic solutions.”
This highlights a crucial balance between investing in human carers and exploring technological alternatives.
POLICY IMPLICATIONS
Policymakers must carefully weigh the pros and cons of integrating robotic care into eldercare systems. Professor Brendan Churchill warns:
“Technology should not be seen as an inevitability. Investments in care robots need to be evaluated against enhancing support for paid and unpaid human carers.”
Additionally, Professor Ekaterina Hertog of Oxford underscores the importance of preserving human connection:
“Care technologies should complement human carers, ensuring that emotional bonds and personal touch remain central in elderly care.”
