Psycho-social Intervention With Paro Robotic Seal Focused on Patients With Dementia

Launched by ISTITUTO NAZIONALE DI RICOVERO E CURA PER ANZIANI · Nov 15, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring how using a special robot, called Paro, can help improve the quality of life for older adults with dementia, particularly those with Alzheimer’s disease. The robot looks like a seal and is designed to provide comfort and companionship to patients. The goal is to see if combining this robot with traditional care can make a positive difference in how patients feel about their daily lives.

To participate in the study, individuals must be diagnosed with mild to moderate dementia and have a score between 10 and 24 on a common test that measures mental function. They should also have been attending an Alzheimer’s Day Center for at least three months and have a caregiver available to support them. Participants will be recruited regardless of gender and need to meet specific health criteria to ensure their safety during the trial. Throughout the study, participants can expect to interact with the Paro robot and share their experiences, which researchers will use to assess any changes in their quality of life.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of mild-moderate dementia according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM V).
• • MMSE between 10 and 24
• • Attending the Alzheimer's Day Center since at least 3 months
• • Presence of a caregiver
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Severe sensory disabilities (visual and auditory)
• • Comprehension difficulties
• • History of syncopal episodes, epilepsy, and dizziness not controlled pharmacologically
• • Severe autonomic system dysfunction
• • Severe behavioral syndromes not compensated by medication