Emily Bower

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Dr. Emily Bower is a leading researcher in human-robot interaction and gerontechnology, with a particular focus on the use of social robots to enhance the well-being of older adults. Her most cited work, "The Use of Robotic Pets with Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic" (2021, 20 citations), is a landmark study that documents the implementation of robotic pet programs during a period of unprecedented social isolation. In this paper, Dr. Bower and her team describe two demonstration projects in collaboration with an aging services organization, detailing the key stakeholders, inputs, and outputs of the initiative. Her findings reveal that robotic pets—such as lifelike cats and dogs—can provide meaningful companionship, reduce loneliness, and spark joy among older adults, even in the absence of human contact. This work has had a significant impact on the field, informing the design of future interventions and influencing policy discussions around technology-based support for aging populations. Dr. Bower’s research bridges engineering, psychology, and social work, and she is recognized as a pioneer in using robotic companions to address the emotional and social needs of seniors, particularly during crises.