The Use of PARO to Decrease Agitation in Persons With Dementia and/or Delirium

In the researchers' words

This Clinical trial tests the efficacy of using the PARO robotic seal to decrease agitation in hospitalized older adults with dementia and/or delirium. This clinical trial also tests the efficacy of the cleaning protocol for the robot. This randomized control trial includes a one hour interaction with the PARO robot two days in a row compared to an attention control with the researcher sitting with the participant in their room for one hour two days in a row. The outcomes being evaluated include both qualitative and quantitative data. Qualitative data from videotaped interactions with the persons interacting with the PARO Robot include episodes of agitation, and emotional responses to the robot via facial expressions. The quantitative outcomes include the Agitation, use of 1:1 sitters, use of psychoactive medications and length of stay.