There has been growing interest in non-pharmacological and relational interventions that support social connection, emotional expression, and quality of life for people living with dementia. Socially assistive technologies, including robotic companions, have shown promise in promoting emotional wellbeing.

Smart companion dolls are accessible and low-technology interventions that may be well-suited for LTC environments. Previous research conducted in Hong Kong has demonstrated that such dolls can promote emotional well-being, improve social interaction, and support mood regulation.

However, culturally tailored smart dolls have yet to be explored within Canadian LTC contexts, particularly in relation to implementation feasibility, staff integration, and residents’ lived experiences. This study addresses these gaps by examining a culturally relevant smart doll in Canadian LTC environments. The goal of the SmartLittle Dolls is to evoke positive emotions and promote wellbeing in a culturally meaningful way.