Effect of a Proactive Social Robot for Older Adults in Reducing Loneliness and Social Isolation

Award Date: 2018

Project Lead(s): Dr. Allison Sekuler

Project Title: Effect of a Proactive Social Robot for Older Adults in Reducing Loneliness and Social Isolation

ElliQ is a social robot that aims to reduce social isolation and loneliness amongst older adults by providing companionship, enrichment and support. This mixed-method longitudinal study will be conducted to test the extent to which the product will decrease the feeling of loneliness and isolation in seniors. The efficacy of ElliQ will be determined via academic surveys and qualitative interviews with participants subsequent to a 2-month living period with the ElliQ robot.