Leveraging an AI-Driven Voice Companion to Enhance Mental Health in Older Adults in Post-Acute and Long-Term Care Settings: A Feasibility Study

Loneliness, depression, and anxiety are prevalent among older adults in post-acute and long-term care settings and are associated with adverse health outcomes. Existing psychosocial interventions often face challenges related to scalability and sustained engagement.This preliminary feasibility study assessed an artificial intelligence–based, voice-driven telephone intervention designed to facilitate conversational engagement with older adults. Thirty-three residents were approached, and 28 enrolled, primarily from skilled nursing facilities and assisted living facilities, with additional participation from independent living settings; 23 completed both baseline and follow-up assessments over a 4-week assessment period.