Suzanne M. Gillespie

Papers

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About

Dr. Suzanne M. Gillespie is a leading researcher in geriatric medicine and aging services, with a focus on innovative interventions to enhance the well-being of older adults. Her work centers on the intersection of technology, social connection, and long-term care, particularly during times of crisis. Dr. Gillespie’s major contributions include pioneering the use of robotic pets—such as interactive companion animals—to combat loneliness and improve mood among older adults, a topic she explored in her highly cited 2021 study, "The Use of Robotic Pets with Older Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic." This work, which has garnered 20 citations, demonstrated how robotic pet programs could be rapidly deployed in aging services organizations to provide comfort and engagement when in-person visits were restricted. Her research has practical implications for nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and community-based care, offering scalable solutions to address social isolation. Dr. Gillespie’s achievements include leading demonstration projects that informed policy and practice during the pandemic, highlighting her ability to translate research into real-world impact. Her work continues to shape how we integrate technology into elder care, making her a vital voice in gerontology.