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

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 wasundertaken 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 acceptabilityof 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 barriersis 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 whocould potentially benefit from the use of robotics.