Research & literature

Read the study Abstract Study Objective The purpose of this study is to determine whether introducing a robotic companion cat into a long term care facility may improve affect and, subsequently, increase participation for residents with dementia, and to determine...

Abstract Purpose Differences in depression and loneliness, during the COVID-19 pandemic, for older adults with mild to moderate dementia living in residential care after interacting with a robotic companion dog or cat were explored. Experiences of family members and...

Abstract Background Robot pets may assist in the challenges of supporting an aging population with growing dementia prevalence. Prior work has focused on the impacts of the robot seal Paro on older adult well-being, but recent studies have suggested the good...

Categories Reduce Social Isolation Reduce Feelings of Loneliness Reduce Use of Antipsychotics and other Medications Increased Quality of Life Others: Decreased Agitation; Increased Cooperation with Activities of Daily Living Organization Name Alacare Home Health and...

Abstract Background Globally, pressure is increasing on health and social care resources due to the aging population and growing prevalence of dementia. Companion robots, such as Paro, demonstrate strong potential for helping reduce this pressure through reported...

Abstract Background Studies consistently demonstrate that older adults who are lonely have higher rates of depression and increased mortality risk. Pet ownership may be a solution for loneliness; however, challenges related to pet ownership exist for older adults....

Delirium is highly prevalent in hospitalized patients and is a strong and consistent negative predictor of length of stay, mortality, and long-term cognitive outcomes.  Symptoms commonly associated with delirium include reduced ability to focus, sleep disturbances,...

This randomized controlled trial at an inner city community hospital examined the effect of a robotic pet (cat or dog) on cognition, loneliness, depression, delirium, falls, restraint use, and 1:1 companion use in 160 adults over age 65. The study utilized robotic...

Abstract Research has previously demonstrated the positive effects of robotic companion pets, but while this is important from a research perspective, their cost renders their widespread use currently unfeasible. This research seeks to explore the potential of an...