Using AI robots to improve care for people with dementia
Official title: Fostering Ethical Adoption of Artificial Intelligence-Enabled Assistive Robots (AIAR) Grounded in Person-Centered Dementia Care
Funded at University of New Hampshire · NIH-11017163 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how friendly robots powered by artificial intelligence can help make life easier and more enjoyable for people with dementia, while also making sure they feel respected and included in decisions about their care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New Hampshire NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $179,449 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EB036448-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017163 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who are living with Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage dementia or those who do not have access to AI technology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how artificial intelligence-enabled assistive robots can enhance the care of individuals living with dementia. It focuses on ensuring that these technologies are integrated ethically, preserving the dignity and autonomy of patients while involving them in decision-making processes. The project aims to address the challenges faced by caregivers and patients by improving communication and understanding through AIAR. By fostering a person-centered approach, the research seeks to create a supportive environment for both patients and their caregivers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved quality of life for individuals with dementia and their caregivers through better integration of AI technology in care.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using technology to support dementia care, but the ethical integration of AIAR remains a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New Hampshire
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Jing — University of New Hampshire
- Study coordinator: Wang, Jing
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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.