Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Kathryn Peri is a pioneering researcher in the field of socially assistive robotics for healthcare, with a particular focus on improving the lives of older adults and individuals with chronic conditions. Her work centers on deploying robots in aged care facilities and private homes to enhance health outcomes, social engagement, and independence. Peri’s major contributions include demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of robots for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as evidenced by her pilot randomized controlled trial (128 citations), and for those with mild cognitive impairment and early-stage dementia. She has also explored the unique challenges and opportunities of using healthcare robots in rural settings, where isolation and limited access to care are prevalent. Her comparative trials in aged care facilities (103 citations) have provided critical insights into both the benefits—such as reduced resident sleeping and increased activity—and the potential problems of integrating multiple robots into care environments. With a cumulative citation count exceeding 300, Peri’s work is foundational to understanding how robots can serve as companions and health aides, bridging gaps in care for vulnerable populations. Her research is notable for its rigorous, real-world application, offering a roadmap for the ethical and effective deployment of assistive technology in healthcare.