Naoki Taira
Papers
1
Total Citations
4
H-Index
1
About
Naoki Taira is a researcher at the forefront of human-robot interaction, with a focused interest in gerontechnology and the psychosocial well-being of older adults. His work explores how companion robots can mitigate the adverse effects of social isolation, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic. Taira’s most cited study, “Reducing Isolation and Cognitive Function of Older People at Home by Family Robot ‘LOVOT’ Intervention” (2021), is a pioneering investigation into the use of the LOVOT—a soft, emotionally expressive family robot—in the homes of elderly individuals. This research demonstrated that robotic companionship can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and potentially slow cognitive decline among seniors who are reluctant or unable to leave their homes. By deploying LOVOT in real-world home settings, Taira provided early, empirical evidence for the therapeutic value of socially assistive robots. Although his citation count is still growing, his work is notable for its timely, human-centered approach to a pressing public health issue, positioning him as an emerging voice in the ethical and practical application of robotics for aging populations.
Research Focus
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Top Papers
- 1