Social work researchers at the University of Central Florida (UCF) are beginning a study to assess whether animal-like robots can help improve the mental health and well-being of older adults with dementia. Associate Professor Susanny Beltran and Professor Kim Gryglewicz, who co-direct the School of Social Work’s Center for Behavioral Health Research and Training, received seed funding from UCF’s College of Health Professions and Sciences (CHPS) to conduct this research.
The project will focus on evaluating the effectiveness and feasibility of using the PARO therapeutic robot, which is modeled after a baby harp seal. The robot, known as Sully the Seal, is equipped with features such as voice and tone recognition, heart rate monitoring, and light and touch sensors. These features are intended to encourage nurturing responses that may benefit users’ well-being.
Beltran noted that access to traditional pet therapy in healthcare settings is often limited due to concerns about allergies, hygiene, and cost. She explained that therapeutic robots could provide similar benefits without these challenges. “Many older adults in long-term care have few opportunities for consistent, meaningful connections,” Beltran said. “Social engagement robots like PARO offer a simple way to create moments of interaction in settings where social connection doesn’t always happen naturally.”
The PARO robot has already been used in more than 30 countries in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and behavioral health settings. It is recognized by the FDA as a Class II medical device. Clinical studies have indicated that it can reduce cortisol levels and improve mood.
Previously at UCF, Sully has been used by social work faculty to support domestic violence victims during debriefing sessions and to provide companionship for neurodiverse adults. Beltran saw potential for its use among older adults in long-term care settings to promote social engagement and reduce loneliness.
Memory care facilities often rely on medication to manage behavioral symptoms of dementia; however, these medications can have side effects or limited effectiveness. The study aims to address gaps in research by developing an intervention that combines guided group sessions with one-on-one interactions using PARO robots.
“Our intervention is not only innovative but also offers therapeutic benefits for enhancing the quality of life for residents,” Gryglewicz said.
Research suggests that human-animal bonds contribute to healthy aging by reducing blood pressure, cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and symptoms of PTSD. However, many older adults in memory care cannot manage live pets. Robotic companions like PARO may serve as an alternative by providing comfort through their interactive features.
The study will be conducted at two memory care facilities in Central Florida with 50 participants who have cognitive impairment or dementia. Master’s students from UCF’s social work program will lead group sessions involving nurturing activities with the robotic seals. Nursing staff will monitor participants’ behavioral and emotional responses throughout the process.
“For residents who may struggle with verbal communication, Sully can become a shared point of engagement, triggering smiles, memories or moments of interaction that might not otherwise occur,” Beltran said.
Beltran recently demonstrated Sully at Orlando Health’s Second Annual Mental Health Conference. Attendees were able to interact directly with the robot during her presentation. “When I first introduce Sully, many social work practitioners expect that clients won’t connect with it or are skeptical that a robotic animal could be meaningful,” Beltran said. “The feedback I hear most often is surprise at how quickly Sully sparks real warmth, comfort and engagement.”
Looking ahead, Beltran and Gryglewicz plan to expand their research by introducing additional robotic animals such as cats, dogs, and birds into their program within the next year.
“The goal of our research is to facilitate meaningful connections with these robotic companions, enhancing socialization and emotional well-being for individuals with limited social interactions and capabilities,” Gryglewicz said. “We plan to scale this intervention for widespread dissemination in healthcare settings in the future.”
