The future of cognitive health: social robots as a tool for personalized neurorehabilitation of the elderly

Authors

  • Anna Zinina National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia; Moscow State Linguistic University, Moscow, Russia; Russian State University for the Humanities, Moscow, Russia
  • Darisiy Zhao : National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia; Moscow State University of Psychology and Education, MEG Center, Moscow, Russia
  • Anastasiya Stolyarova National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia; Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Moscow, Russia
  • Artemy Kotov National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia; Moscow State Linguistic University, Moscow, Russia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54359/ps.v19i106.2082

Abstract

The aim of this article is (a) to analyze and systematize contemporary experimental practices in the use of companion robots for training and supporting cognitive functions in older adults, and (b) based on a synthesis of international research, to develop a framework for a comprehensive rehabilitation program applicable in the Russian context. The review includes studies examining the effectiveness of social robots in the prevention and intervention of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and dementia. In interactions with older adults, robots implemented cognitive training methods combined with elements of physical activity and provided natural feedback and emotional support through speech, facial expressions, and gestures. The review also considers studies in which social robots supported patients’ socialization, monitored the completion of daily tasks, reminded them of important events, conducted games, and stimulated social interaction. Ethical issues are addressed, as transparency and ethical principles in system design play a crucial role in building user trust. The majority of studies demonstrate the promising potential of social robots for assisting older adults with cognitive impairments: interaction with robots is associated with improvements in memory and attention, reductions in stress levels, and increased motivation for social engagement. Based on international research and accumulated experience in neurorehabilitation in Russia, a program of continuous support for patients with MCI is proposed. The program is designed to combine training sessions of varying intensity and duration.

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Author Biographies

  • Anna Zinina, National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia; Moscow State Linguistic University, Moscow, Russia; Russian State University for the Humanities, Moscow, Russia

    PhD in Psychology, Senior Researcher at the Laboratory of Neurocognitive Technologies, National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, pl. Akademika Kurchatova, d. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia; Leading Researcher at the Laboratory of Anthropomorphic Interfaces, Moscow State Linguistic University, ul. Ostozhenka, d. 38, str. 1, 119034 Moscow, Russia; Associate Professor at the Department of Personality Psychology, Russian State University for the Humanities, Miusskaya ploshchad, d. 6, 125047 Moscow, Russia.

  • Darisiy Zhao, : National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia; Moscow State University of Psychology and Education, MEG Center, Moscow, Russia

    PhD in Technical Sciences, Junior Researcher at the Laboratory of Neurocognitive Technologies, National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute,” pl. Akademika Kurchatova, d. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia; Researcher at the MEG Center, Moscow State University of Psychology and Education, ul. Sretenka, d. 29, 127051 Moscow, Russia.

  • Anastasiya Stolyarova, National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia; Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Moscow, Russia

    PhD Student, Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Vernadsky prospect, d. 82, 119571 Moscow, Russia; National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, pl. Akademika Kurchatova, d. 1, 123182 Moscow , Russia.

  • Artemy Kotov, National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, Moscow, Russia; Moscow State Linguistic University, Moscow, Russia

    PhD in Linguistics, Leading Researcher, Laboratory of Neurocognitive Technologies, National Research Center “Kurchatov Institute”, pl. Akademika Kurchatova, d. 1, 123182 Moscow, Russia; Head of the Laboratory of Anthropomorphic Interfaces, Moscow State Linguistic University, ul. Ostozhenka, d. 38, str. 1, 119034 Moscow, Russia.

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Published

2026-05-04

Issue

Vol. 19 No. 106 (2026)

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How to Cite

Zinina, A., Zhao, D., Stolyarova, A., & Kotov, A. (2026). The future of cognitive health: social robots as a tool for personalized neurorehabilitation of the elderly. Psychological Studies, 19(106), 6. https://doi.org/10.54359/ps.v19i106.2082