Study of the Impact of a Social Robot on Unwanted Loneliness in Elderly People Living in Nursing Homes

Launched by SARA DOMENECH · Mar 31, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring whether social robots can help reduce feelings of loneliness in elderly people living in nursing homes. The study will involve residents aged 65 and older who have been living in the nursing home for at least six months. Participants will be divided into two groups: one group will continue with their usual care, while the other group will interact with a social robot in addition to their regular activities. Over eight weeks, participants using the robot will engage in various activities, including cognitive exercises, mobility sessions, and conversations about traditions, as well as have the chance to ask the robot questions about daily life in the nursing home.

The goal is to see if the social robots make a difference in reducing loneliness and improving overall well-being. Before the study starts, at the end of the eight weeks, and four weeks after the study ends, both groups will be assessed to understand the impact of the robot. It’s important to know that participants should be able to understand and answer questions about their feelings of loneliness and should not have any conditions that would prevent them from using the robot. This study aims to enhance the quality of life for elderly residents by exploring innovative ways to foster social interaction.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • To be 65 years old or older.
• • To live indefinitely for more than 6 months in the participating nursing home (to avoid the effect of the adaptation period).
• • Provide the informed consent.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Impossibility to understand and/or answer the loneliness questionnaire for themselves.
• • To have physical, cognitive or other conditions preventing the use of the robot platform.