Perception and Comprehension of a Humanoid Robot by Older Adults with Dementia: Evidence from a Nursing Home Study in Japan

Abstract

This exploratory study investigated how older adults with dementia perceive and understand speech from a humanoid robot (Android) in a nursing home setting. Twelve residents participated in both free conversation and story comprehension tasks, with participants divided into two groups based on cognitive function (MMSE score of 23 or higher vs. 22 or lower). While overall impressions of the Android were positive—especially among individuals with lower cognitive function—comprehension of robot-delivered speech was significantly lower in the more impaired group compared to speech delivered by a human (p< 0.05). Notably, some participants mirrored the robot’s facial expressions, such as smiling in response, suggesting emotional resonance. These findings indicate the potential of humanoid robots for social engagement in dementia care, while also highlighting the need for improvements in speech delivery to accommodate individuals with more severe cognitive decline.

Yegang Du

Assistant Professor

My research interests include intelligent system, HCI, AIoT, and pervasive computing.