Natalia Karhu

Tampere University of Applied Sciences, Tampere University

Papers

Total Citations

H-Index

About

Natalia Karhu is a leading researcher in human-robot interaction, with a focused expertise on enhancing technology engagement among older adults. Her work centers on the intersection of gerontechnology and socially assistive robotics (SARs), aiming to bridge the digital divide in care home settings. Karhu’s major contributions include developing the "Robotour for Seniors" (RTS) co-learning model, a pioneering framework that uses group workshops and hands-on interactions with robots like Paro, Nao, and Pepper to boost robot literacy in adults aged 75 and older. Her 2024 study on accessibility in senior-robot interactions, which has garnered early citations, demonstrates how personalized SARs can demystify technology and foster independence. By emphasizing co-learning—where seniors and robots teach each other—Karhu’s work has practical impact, directly improving quality of life in care environments. Her 2025 paper on the RTS model further solidifies her reputation as a thought leader in inclusive robotics. With a growing citation count reflecting the timeliness of her research, Karhu is shaping how we design empathetic, accessible robots for aging populations, making her a vital voice in the future of assistive technology.