Using a robot to help older adults with mild dementia

Impacts of Kebbi Robot Intervention on Cognitive Functions, Heart Rate Variability and Psychological Changes for Older Adults With Mild Dementia

Not applicable Interventional National Tainan Junior College of Nursing · NCT06606600

This study tests if a robot can help older adults with mild dementia improve their thinking skills and emotional well-being while they live in long-term care.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment136 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNational Tainan Junior College of Nursing Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Tainan and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06606600 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of an intensive Kebbi robot intervention on cognitive functions, heart rate variability, and psychological changes in older adults with mild dementia residing in long-term care. Participants will engage with the robot for 30 minutes, three times a week over a 12-week period, while a control group will continue with usual activities. The study aims to determine the effectiveness of the robot intervention compared to standard care and gather insights on participants' experiences and perceptions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults aged 65 and over with mild dementia who can communicate in Mandarin or Taiwanese.

Not a fit: Patients with severe communication difficulties or those with moderate to severe dementia will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could enhance cognitive functions and emotional well-being in older adults with mild dementia.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of robotic interventions in dementia care is emerging, this specific approach with the Kebbi robot is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* aged 65 years or over;
* mild dementia (MMSE score between (19-24) according to level of education;
* an ability to communicate in Mandarin or Taiwanese;
* has been admitted in dementia daycare centers at least 3 months.

Exclusion Criteria:

* have severe difficulty in communication;
* are totally dependent on carers for daily activity;
* have a diagnosed infectious disease, moderate or severe dementia, and severe mental illness such as schizophrenia and delusional disorder

Where this trial is running

Tainan and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Mild Cognitive ImpairmentInteractive robotheart rate variabilitypsychological changesdementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.