Velserbroek

Many individuals in long-term disability care, including those with conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, mild to moderate intellectual disability, acquired brain injury, and Down syndrome, face challenges with daily structure and planning. This study evaluates the (cost)effectiveness of a social robot designed to reduce the frequency of professional caregiver support and promote independence for these individuals. The research aims to understand the robot's impact on caregiver support frequency after 6 weeks, its lasting effects after 6 months, and its cost-effectiveness. Participants will use a small flowerpot-shaped social robot called Tessa, which provides spoken reminders at preset times. The robot is programmed through a web app by either the participant or their professional caregiver. Together, they set 3 to 5 personalized goals to improve daily activities, which are monitored weekly using an individualized evaluation scale. The study follows a multiple baseline design where participants first receive care as usual, then use the robot while progress is tracked. During the 13-week study period and a 2-week follow-up, participants will complete surveys about their quality of life and well-being, and share their experiences in interviews. Professional caregivers will record the frequency and duration of support they provide daily, update goal progress weekly, complete questionnaires on participant productivity and healthcare use, and also participate in interviews. The main outcome measured is the weekly frequency of professional caregiver support throughout the study and follow-up periods.