Emma C. Drobina

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About

Dr. Emma C. Drobina is a researcher at the intersection of human-robot interaction, gerontechnology, and assistive robotics, with a focus on supporting aging-in-place for older adults with mobility impairments. Her most cited work, "An Evaluation of a Telepresence Robot" (2017, 13 citations), critically examines the potential of telepresence platforms like Kubi to foster social connectedness and health maintenance among this population. Drobina’s contributions lie in identifying both the promise and the limitations of off-the-shelf robotic systems for vulnerable users, highlighting design gaps that must be addressed to make these tools truly accessible and beneficial. While her citation count reflects a niche but growing field, her research is foundational for engineers and clinicians seeking to develop more inclusive assistive technologies. By grounding her work in user-centered evaluation, Drobina provides actionable insights for improving robotic design, ultimately aiming to enhance independence and quality of life for older adults. Her scholarship is a vital resource for students and researchers exploring how robotics can bridge social and physical barriers in aging populations.