Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Francesco Riccardi is a leading researcher in socially assistive robotics and human-robot interaction, with a primary focus on improving quality of life for older adults and individuals with dementia. His most cited work, the MARIO project, demonstrated how companion robots can reduce depression and enhance perceived social support in residential care settings—a landmark study with 63 citations that has shaped subsequent interventions in gerontechnology. Riccardi’s contributions extend beyond dementia care into the design of empathetic, adaptive robotic systems that respond to users’ emotional and cognitive needs. His research has been instrumental in proving that short-term, personalized robot interactions can yield measurable psychosocial benefits, paving the way for scalable, non-pharmacological therapies. With a growing citation impact and a reputation for rigorous, real-world evaluations, Riccardi continues to influence both engineering and clinical practice. His work not only advances the technical frontier of social robotics but also redefines how technology can support human dignity and connection in aging populations.