EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCE AND ACCEPTANCE OF PASSIVE EXOSKELETONS IN HEALTHCARE SECTOR: INSIGHTS FROM A HUMAN-CENTERED DESIGN APPROACH

Abstract

Wearable exoskeletons hold promise for reducing the physical strain of healthcare workers, yet their emotional and experiential impact remains underexplored. This study, part of the Exo.Care program, investigated healthcare workers’ emotional responses and user experience during a 30-day trial of a passive exoskeleton in residential and home-care settings. Using the Geneva Emotion Wheel (GEW) and the User Experience Questionnaire (UEQ), results showed that initial interactions elicited predominantly positive emotions, such as interest and admiration, reflecting the novelty effect. After prolonged use, positive emotional intensity decreased, while fear and disappointment emerged, highlighting gaps between expectations and actual performance. UEQ results revealed usability challenges in efficiency, dependability, and stimulation, though novelty and attractiveness were positively rated. Findings underscore the importance of integrating emotional and ergonomic factors in exoskeleton design to enhance acceptability, facilitate adoption, and ensure these devices can be effectively incorporated into healthcare workflows.