Kennesaw State researchers develop phone application to combat elderly loneliness

KENNESAW, Ga. | May 27, 2025

Maria Valero
Luisa Valentina Nino de Valladares, Maria Valero, Paola Spoletini, and Israel Sanchez Cardona
Research shows that chronic social isolation can be as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, and perhaps no group is more at risk than the elderly. In response to this health crisis, 亚博官方网站 researchers are developing an AI-powered tool to help older adults match and reconnect with others in meaningful, human-centered ways.

Sandrapp, short for Supporting Adults Needing Direct Relationship App, is designed to combat chronic loneliness among aging populations. Unlike traditional social platforms, Sandrapp does not focus on digital messaging or content. Instead, it uses artificial intelligence to facilitate interactions with real people who share similar values, beliefs, and life experiences.

The idea emerged during a University-led research think-tank session on health and wellness in aging communities. Paola Spoletini, a professor and associate dean of research in