Deborah Shenton
Papers
2
Total Citations
54
H-Index
2
About
Deborah Shenton is a researcher dedicated to improving quality of life for older adults through human-robot interaction. Her primary research areas include user-centered design, companion robotics, and dementia care. Shenton’s major contribution lies in her pioneering work on integrating companion robot pets—such as Paro—into care home environments. Her most cited study (2021, 52 citations) employed a qualitative, user-centered design approach, involving direct interactions between residents, staff, and family members with robot pets. This work demonstrated how companion robots can reduce agitation, alleviate loneliness, and support dementia care, while emphasizing the importance of co-design with end-users. By conducting focus groups and observing real-world interactions, Shenton provided critical insights into the practical and emotional benefits of robotic companions, as well as the challenges of adoption in care settings. Her research has informed best practices for deploying social robots in healthcare, influencing both design and policy. Shenton’s work stands out for its compassionate, participatory methodology, ensuring that technology serves the needs of vulnerable populations. Her findings continue to shape the growing field of socially assistive robotics, making her a key voice in the intersection of technology, aging, and care.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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