The Role of AI Chatbot in Alleviating Anxiety Among Elderly People Living Alone in the Community: A Prospective Study

This study developed Xiaoan, an AI voice chatbot for anxious elderly living alone, based on interview-identified needs. In a 3-month trial with 120 participants, Xiaoan significantly improved HAMA anxiety and UCLA loneliness scores, increased social and activity time, and reduced tense moments and negative vocabulary. Effects were stronger among more educated, socially active, or highly anxious participants. Positive indicators correlated positively with each other and negatively with negative ones. Findings suggest Xiaoan may effectively alleviate anxiety and loneliness in this population.