Mizuki Kobayashi
Papers
1
Total Citations
3
H-Index
1
About
Mizuki Kobayashi is a leading researcher in human-robot interaction and gerontechnology, with a focus on how social robots can enhance the quality of life for older adults. Her work critically examines the intersection of technology adoption, social connectedness, and aging, particularly in the context of crisis and societal change. Kobayashi’s most-cited study, “How did COVID-19 pandemic affect the older adults’ needs for robot technologies in Japan?,” investigates how the pandemic reshaped older adults’ preferences for robotic assistance, comparing participatory design workshops conducted during and after the COVID-19 crisis. This research tests the stimulation hypothesis—that technology can foster social interaction—against the disengagement hypothesis, offering nuanced insights into the psychosocial dynamics of technology use among aging populations. With 3 citations, this paper is foundational in understanding the evolving role of social technology in mitigating loneliness and improving mental health outcomes for older adults. Kobayashi’s work is notable for its participatory, user-centered approach, directly involving older adults in the design process to ensure technologies meet real-world needs. Her contributions are vital for researchers and designers aiming to create inclusive, socially supportive robotic systems for an aging society.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1