Tomoaki Abiko

Toyo University, Toyo Engineering (Japan)

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Dr. Tomoaki Abiko is a pioneering researcher in geriatric mental health and human-robot interaction, with a focused expertise on using companion robots to alleviate psychological distress in older adults. His work addresses critical challenges in community-dwelling elder care, particularly during periods of social isolation. In a landmark 2020 case report, Dr. Abiko demonstrated that a communication robot could significantly reduce family care burden, a finding that has garnered 4 citations for its practical implications. He expanded this line of inquiry during the COVID-19 pandemic, publishing a 2023 study that investigated the use of a companion robot to improve depression symptoms in an older adult receiving home-visit rehabilitation services during the state of emergency. This work, with 2 citations, provides compelling evidence for robotic interventions as a scalable tool to combat loneliness and diurnal mood disturbances. Dr. Abiko’s contributions are notable for their real-world applicability, bridging the gap between assistive technology and clinical gerontology. His research offers a humane, technology-driven solution to the growing mental health crisis among aging populations, making him a key voice in the future of robotic caregiving.