School of Social Work Faculty Publications
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-2-2026
Abstract
Background and objectives: Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) significantly affects older adults and their caregivers, necessitating innovative caregiving solutions. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluate the efficacy of the application of AI-based socially assistive robots (AI-SARs) in ADRD care.
Research design and methods: A comprehensive literature search of randomized controlled trials was conducted across 11 databases (e.g., PubMed, Web of Science) following PRISMA guidelines. Eligible trial studies must be interventions that adopted AI-SARs in supporting older adults with ADRD or family caregivers. Outcomes analyzed included care recipient cognitive function, depression, anxiety, and agitation.
Results: Fourteen studies were included in the systematic review and ten in the meta-analysis. AI-SAR interventions showed a statistically significant reduction in depression (SMD = -0.30; 95% CI: -0.56 to -0.03; p = .027) and agitation (SMD = -0.26; 95% CI: -0.49 to -0.03; p = .027). No significant effects were found on cognitive function (SMD = -0.07; 95% CI: -0.30 to 0.16; p = .555), or anxiety (SMD = 1.12; 95% CI: -1.73 to 3.98; p = .440).
Discussion and implications: AI-SARs may reduce depressive symptoms and agitation among older adults with ADRD. However, evidence for other outcomes remains inconclusive. Future research should focus on large-scale trials with standardized outcomes and explore the role of AI-SARs in supporting caregivers.
Recommended Citation
Chen, X. S., Jiang, L., Sun, F., & Feng, Y. (2026). AI-Based Social Assistive Robots in Dementia Care: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. The Gerontologist, gnag019. https://doi.org/10.1093/geront/gnag019
Publication Title
The Gerontologist
DOI
10.1093/geront/gnag019
Comments
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