Use of Socially Assistive Robots to Improve Outcomes Among Hospitalized Older Adults With Dementia: A Pilot Randomized Trial

Purpose To examine the use of the PARO robotic pet seal for hospitalized older adults with dementia and compare the effects of PARO use with visits by a human on various outcomes, including physical restraint use, psychotropic medications, bedside sitters, and delirium. Method Complete data for 38 participants were analyzed using Mann-Whitney U and chi-square tests. Results Participants interacting with PARO spent less time in their interactions; however, they received fewer psychotropic medications and had fewer instances of delirium than those who interacted with human visitors only. Conclusion Aspects of hospitalization may limit the time an older adult can sustain attention or be free from interruption; however, short, repeated visits with PARO may affect the development of delirium and decrease use of medications to alter behavior in the hospital setting. [ Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 50 (10), 11–16.]