Robot buddy tested to combat loneliness in seniors

NCT ID NCT06487611

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a humanoid robot named HUMANE could help older adults living at home feel less lonely and more connected. Sixty people aged 50 and older used the robot for 6 weeks, interacting with it through music, news, games, and conversation. Researchers measured loneliness, memory, mood, and confidence before and after the trial to see if the robot made a difference.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

humanoid social robot (HUMANE)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, home-based tool to help older adults feel less lonely and more engaged without needing a caregiver.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early pilot study with only 60 participants. The robot may not be easy for everyone to use, and any benefits might not apply to all older adults.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cognitive Dysfunction Depression depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

    Hong Kong, Hong Kong