Kari Blindheim

Norwegian University of Science and Technology

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Kari Blindheim is a pioneering researcher at the intersection of social robotics and geriatric care, whose work addresses the critical challenge of promoting meaningful activity for the growing population of older adults with cognitive impairments. Her highly cited pilot study on deploying the social robot Pepper in Norwegian long-term care facilities demonstrated how humanoid robots can be tailored to individual needs, offering engaging, technology-assisted participation for residents—80% of whom live with dementia or cognitive decline. With 57 citations, this work has become a foundational reference for researchers exploring non-pharmacological interventions in assisted living. Blindheim’s contributions are particularly significant given that approximately 40,000 individuals in Norway depend on such facilities, highlighting the urgent societal need for scalable, person-centered solutions. By bridging robotics and gerontology, she has shown that social robots can enhance quality of life, reduce caregiver burden, and foster autonomy. Her research continues to shape how technology can support aging populations, making her a vital voice in the field of human-robot interaction and assistive technology.