Using a robotic seal to improve quality of life for dementia patients

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

Not applicable Interventional Istituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani · NCT05626205

This study is testing whether a robotic seal can help improve the mood and overall quality of life for elderly people with dementia when used alongside regular treatments.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages65 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIstituto Nazionale di Ricovero e Cura per Anziani Academic / other
Locations1 site (Ancona)
Trial IDNCT05626205 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates how the Paro robotic seal can enhance the quality of life for elderly patients with dementia when integrated with traditional interventions. It focuses on measuring improvements in cognitive status, mood, and technology acceptance among participants. Various assessment tools, including the Quality of Life - Alzheimer's Disease scale and the Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination, will be utilized to gather data on patient outcomes. The study is conducted at the IRCCS INRCA Alzheimer's Day Center, where patients interact with the robot under the supervision of caregivers.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are elderly individuals diagnosed with mild to moderate dementia who have been attending the Alzheimer's Day Center for at least three months.

Not a fit: Patients with severe sensory disabilities, comprehension difficulties, or uncontrolled severe behavioral syndromes may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance the quality of life for patients with dementia.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using technology-based interventions for dementia, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion 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

Where this trial is running

Ancona

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 Alzheimer DiseaseOlder Adultstechnology-based interventionDementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.