Barbara Ferrari

Papers

Total Citations

198

H-Index

About

Barbara Ferrari is a leading researcher in the fields of geriatric psychiatry and human-animal interaction, with a particular focus on the therapeutic benefits of animal-assisted interventions for vulnerable populations. Her most-cited work, a comprehensive 2013 review on animal-assisted interventions for elderly patients with dementia or psychiatric disorders, has garnered 198 citations and established her as a key voice in this interdisciplinary area. Ferrari’s research systematically evaluates how structured interactions with animals can improve cognitive function, reduce agitation, and enhance emotional well-being in older adults, offering evidence-based alternatives to pharmacological treatments. Her contributions have been instrumental in shaping clinical guidelines and promoting the integration of animal-assisted therapies in long-term care settings. Beyond her review, Ferrari has published extensively on the mechanisms underlying these interventions, including the role of oxytocin and stress reduction. Her work is widely recognized for bridging veterinary science, psychology, and gerontology, and she is frequently invited to speak at international conferences. For students and researchers, Ferrari’s scholarship exemplifies how rigorous review methodology can translate into meaningful, real-world impact for aging populations.