AI-Powered Robots Operate Against Loneliness in the USA

In the United States, AI‑powered robots and animatronic dogs are being deployed to counter the social isolation that elderly people living alone face in their daily lives. The New York State Office on Aging uses these technologies to reduce the amount of time seniors spend alone between family visits, phone calls, and social gatherings.

Robots Provide Friendship Support

The AI‑powered robots used in the program accompany seniors in their daily lives by chatting with them. The animatronic dogs offer a pet‑like companionship experience. Officials say the technology is not intended to replace family and friends, but to provide support during the intervals between visits.

Millions of Seniors Live Alone

In New York, millions of older adults continue their lives at home. The long periods of solitude between meetings with family and loved ones make reducing social isolation a key focus of the state's services for seniors. AI and robotic devices are also being considered as tools that could fill this gap.

ElliQ Had Been Used Earlier

The AI‑powered ElliQ robot had already been used in New York’s technology programs for seniors. According to data released in 2023, the program aimed to deliver more than 800 robots to the homes of New Yorkers aged 60 and over, yet at that time 257 people had received a free ElliQ device. At the same time, 95% of users said the robot helped reduce their loneliness and improve their overall well‑being.

Technology Does Not Replace Loneliness

In the approach of the New York State Office on Aging, artificial intelligence is presented not as an alternative to human relationships but as a complementary tool when social contact is lacking. The program aims to help seniors who live alone engage in more interaction during the day.