Lisa M. Willoughby
Papers
1
Total Citations
548
H-Index
1
About
Lisa M. Willoughby is a leading researcher in the intersection of human-animal interaction, gerontology, and assistive technology. Her most influential work, the 2008 study "Animal-Assisted Therapy and Loneliness in Nursing Homes: Use of Robotic versus Living Dogs," has garnered over 548 citations, establishing her as a pioneer in comparing the therapeutic benefits of living animals with robotic companions for elderly populations. This seminal research demonstrated that robotic dogs can effectively reduce loneliness in nursing home residents, offering a scalable, low-maintenance alternative to live animal therapy. Willoughby’s contributions have profound implications for improving quality of life in long-term care settings, particularly for individuals with allergies, mobility constraints, or facility restrictions. Her work bridges psychology, human-robot interaction, and geriatric care, influencing both clinical practice and the design of socially assistive robots. Beyond this landmark study, Willoughby continues to explore how technology can foster emotional well-being in vulnerable populations, making her a key voice in the evolving field of animal-assisted interventions and human-centered robotics.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
- 1