Karen Thodberg

Aarhus University, Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Department

Papers

Total Citations

167

H-Index

About

Karen Thodberg is a leading researcher in human-animal interaction, specializing in the therapeutic use of dogs and robotic companions for elderly care. Her work focuses on understanding how animal-assisted interventions and robotic alternatives affect the behavior and well-being of nursing home residents. Thodberg’s major contributions include pioneering studies that compare the effects of live dogs, robot seals (PARO), and toy cats on elderly populations. Her 2016 paper on behavioral responses to these visits, cited 84 times, reveals that dogs elicit more active engagement and positive social behaviors, while robot seals provide comfort for those unable to interact with live animals. Her 2015 study (81 citations) further demonstrates that biweekly dog visits improve sleep patterns and reduce psychiatric symptoms, such as agitation and depression, in residents with a median age of 85.5. Thodberg’s work has practical implications for designing cost-effective, scalable interventions in long-term care settings, bridging gaps in animal welfare and geriatric psychiatry. Her research is notable for its rigorous methodology and direct impact on policy recommendations for animal-assisted therapy in nursing homes.