Robot for Alleviating Loneliness and Engaging Nursing Home Residents

Background: Social isolation and loneliness are critical challenges in older adult care. Loneliness is associated with declines in both physical and mental health. Approximately 50% of older adults over the age of 80 years experience loneliness. Nursing home residents are at a greater risk of loneliness due to limited staffing and COVID-19 visiting restrictions in place. More socially active older adults experience less cognitive decline in old age and better overall functioning. The use of technology for social interaction may have a positive impact on the behavioral and psychological symptoms of Alzheimer's disease (AD) especially in early stages of the disease. Robots are currently used in very few senior living facilities and cognitive support and communication are among the most desired functions. By using an autonomous navigating telepresence robot, the intervention brings the technology to the resident and allows her/him to socialize and interact with a loved-one without the need for a caregiver. This intervention integrates the Vigorous Mind system with the temi autonomous navigating telepresence robot (Vigorous Mind Robot - "VMR"). Aims: 1. Develop web-based visit scheduler and integrate the VM platform with the temi robot 2. Test usability of the VMR with 10 Residents and family members 3. Pilot study of the feasibility of a VMR intervention with 40 Residents Experimental Design: Testing of the VMR intervention consisted of a usability and feasibility phase. During usability, residents and family members were trained on use of the VMR robot and web-interface. Family members conducted two virtual visits and usability interviews with residents and family members followed each visit. Feasibility followed usability testing with a three-month period where family members were able to schedule virtual visits as often as they would like. Debriefing interviews with family members and residents occurred at the end of feasibility testing. Resident loneliness and mood was assessed with the UCLA Loneliness Scale, Geriatric Depression Scale, single-item loneliness scale, and PHQ-2.