The use of robotics in occupational therapy research, practice and education: a scoping review

Ryan, Ciara; Maclean, Fiona; Porter-Armstrong, Alison; Abady, Gdiom

Abstract

Innovative technologies, like robotics, are advancing rapidly across health and rehabilitation. However, evidence underpinning the use of robotics in occupational therapy is unclear. A scoping review was
undertaken to map the existing literature on the use of robotics in occupational therapy, to elucidate the breadth of evidence including gaps. Bibliographic databases were systematically searched. Screening, data extraction, and quantitative and qualitative synthesis were conducted according to Arksey & O’Malley’s (2005) methodological framework.
Results indicate a predominance of literature on rehabilitative applications of robotics, mainly in relation to stroke rehabilitation, and a need for more person-centered research on the acceptability
of diverse robotic applications across different conditions and areas of occupational therapy practice. Costs, training needs, and ethical and privacy concerns emerge as implementation barriers. Elucidating client experiences and priorities through qualitative inquiry will inform ethical and effective adoption of robotics in occupational therapy practice. Addressing cost and training barriers
is vital for feasible implementation.

Final results will summarise key concepts, extent of evidence,
and gaps related to robotics integration in occupational therapy research, practice, and education. Informing the need to undertake further qualitative inquiry of the lived experiences of people who
could potentially benefit from the use of robotics.

Citation

Ryan, C., Maclean, F., Porter-Armstrong, A., & Abady, G. (2024, October). The use of robotics in occupational therapy research, practice and education: a scoping review. Presented at 1st Occupational Therapy Europe Congress, Kraków. Poland

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (published)
• Conference Name: 1st Occupational Therapy Europe Congress
• Start Date: Oct 15, 2024
• End Date: Oct 19, 2024
• Acceptance Date: Jan 11, 2024
• Online Publication Date: Oct 23, 2024
• Publication Date: 2024
• Deposit Date: Oct 28, 2024
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Pages: 427
• Book Title: 1st Occupational Therapy Europe Congress. Book of Abstracts
• ISBN: 978-83-970803-0-0
• Keywords: equality, life long learning, innovation
• Publisher URL: https://ot-europe2024.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Book-of-Abstracts_OT-Europe2024_Krakow_v20241017.pdf