Using a robot to help engage older adults with cognitive impairments in care facilities
Impact of a Novel Socially Assistive Robotic Architecture on Engaging Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment, Alzheimer's Disease, and Related Dementia in Long Term Care Settings
This study is looking at how a friendly robot named ARIA can help older adults with mild cognitive issues or dementia feel more engaged and happy in long-term care by encouraging them to participate in fun social and mental activities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10938878 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a socially assistive robot to engage older adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment, Alzheimer's disease, and related dementias in long-term care settings. The robot, named ARIA, aims to reduce apathy and improve the quality of life for these individuals by facilitating social, physical, and cognitive activities. By leveraging technology, the study seeks to address the challenges faced by nursing staff in providing meaningful engagement to residents, especially in light of staffing shortages. The approach is designed to be resource-efficient while meeting regulatory requirements for engaging activities in care facilities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults residing in long-term care facilities who have been diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not in long-term care settings or those with severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the quality of life for older adults with cognitive impairments by reducing apathy and promoting engagement.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using robotic interventions for engaging older adults, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Nashville, UNITED STATES
- Vanderbilt University — Nashville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sarkar, Nilanjan — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Sarkar, Nilanjan
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.