Effectiveness of Robot Paro in Intramural Psychogeriatric Care: A Multicenter Quasi-Experimental Study.

BACKGROUND Together with care professionals, specific psychogeriatric care applications were developed for the seal robot Paro. OBJECTIVES This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of the developed Paro interventions, applying the robot in psychogeriatric care. DESIGN A multicenter quasi-experimental time series ABAB study (n = 91) with within-subject comparison was conducted to assess both the short-term effects of the Paro interventions for therapeutic applications, and the facilitation of daily care activities by care providers. SETTING Small-scale care units (8-10 residents each), spread over 6 different locations, in 3 Dutch care institutions for intramural psychogeriatric care. PARTICIPANTS A total of 91 patients with dementia, in all stages of dementia. INTERVENTION Two user-centered intervention types were applied, one for therapeutic purposes and one for the facilitation of daily care activities. MEASUREMENTS Effectiveness was measured with a goal attainment scale (IPPA) and a mood scale (Coop/Wonca), by means of a registration form. RESULTS A total of 106 user-specific interventions were defined for 91 participants; 71 participants completed the study, 14 were men and 57 were women. All interventions combined show a significant effect (P < .001). CONCLUSION Paro should be seen as a tool for care staff and not as a replacement of care. Successful implementation of Paro in daily intramural psychogeriatric care practice can increase the quality of care and the quality of life for the elderly.