Authors:
Julio Oliveira
1
;
Telmo Silva
1
;
Rita Oliveira
1
and
Elizabeth Furtado
2
Affiliations:
1
Digimedia, Universidade de Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
;
2
Doutorado em Informática Aplicada, Universidade de Fortaleza, Fortaleza, Brazil
Keyword(s):
Embodied Conversational Agents, Hypertension, Focus Group, Non-Hedonic Applications.
Abstract:
This paper investigates the essential tasks for Embodied Conversational Agents (ECA) to engage Older Adults in hypertension treatment effectively. The research addresses the growing need for innovative solutions to support aging populations and explores the potential of ECA to provide cognitive, emotional, and practical support. The central research question focuses on identifying the key tasks an ECA should perform to assist Older Adults in managing their hypertension. Through a Focus Group (FG) with healthcare professionals, the study identifies ten key tasks for ECA support, encompassing pharmacological (medication adherence and tracking) and non-pharmacological (dietary monitoring, exercise promotion, disease education, and communication facilitation) aspects of hypertension management. The FG was held online with seven participants (5 participants and 2 User Experience Specialists) in January 2023. The paper also discusses the broader challenges and considerations related to ECA
engagement for Older Adults, including ethical concerns, user acceptance, and the importance of personalized and empathetic interactions. The findings emphasize the need for a tailored ECA design that considers individual patient needs, medical history, and preferences to maximize effectiveness and promote successful hypertension management.
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