Strategic robot adoption to improve work efficiency and safety in elderly care: Insights from mixed-method approach

Background Elderly care facilities increasingly face labor shortages, physically demanding tasks, and a growing need for consistent service quality. Robotic technologies have the potential to alleviate workforce strain and improve care delivery, yet their effective adoption requires careful prioritization and planning. Objective This study aimed to identify key strategic factors that influence the adoption of robots in elderly care settings, focusing on improving workforce efficiency, safety, and standardization through a structured, decision-making framework. Methods Using the 4Ps innovation framework (Product, Process, People, and Place/Promotion), this research employed the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) with 80 nursing hospitals, along with expert Focus Group Interviews (FGIs), to assess the relative importance of factors driving robot adoption in caregiving environments. Results Standardization and task homogenization were identified as top priorities for minimizing errors and enhancing service consistency. The study proposes a multi-stage implementation strategy, beginning with pilot adoption of simple-function robots and progressing toward complex applications aligned with institutional readiness. Key influencing factors include people innovation (reducing workforce burden) and process innovation (streamlining operations). Conclusions This study provides actionable insights into the strategic deployment of robotic services in elderly care facilities. The findings support phased robot integration as a means to enhance workforce support, promote operational safety, and ensure quality care for aging populations.