Sharon Narducci

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About

Dr. Sharon Narducci is a pioneering researcher in geriatric care and human-robot interaction, with a focused expertise on improving outcomes for hospitalized older adults. Her landmark 2018 randomized controlled trial, "Robotic Pet Therapy Improves Outcomes for Hospitalized Older Adults," remains her most cited work, demonstrating the transformative potential of robotic companion animals—such as robotic cats and dogs with audible heartbeats—in clinical settings. In this study of 160 adults over age 65 at an inner-city community hospital, Dr. Narducci showed that robotic pet therapy significantly reduced loneliness, depression, and delirium, while also decreasing falls, restraint use, and the need for costly 1:1 companions. Her work has garnered 4 citations and is recognized for its practical, scalable approach to enhancing cognitive and emotional well-being in vulnerable populations. Dr. Narducci’s contributions bridge technology and compassionate care, offering evidence-based solutions that improve quality of life for aging patients. Her research continues to influence geriatric nursing and therapeutic robotics, making her a key voice in the movement toward human-centered, technology-assisted elder care.