Robot seal calms dementia patients during care
NCT ID NCT04941222
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether a robotic seal named PARO could help elderly people with moderate to severe memory problems feel calmer during daily care like bathing. The robot was used for a few minutes before and during care, twice a week for 16 weeks. The goal was to see if it reduced agitation and anxiety, and if it was worth the cost. The study was stopped early and included only 33 people, so the results are not conclusive.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- PARO robotic seal
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a drug-free way to calm agitation and anxiety during daily care for people with dementia.
- What could go wrong
- The trial was terminated early with only 33 participants, so results are limited. The robot may not work for everyone, and cost savings are uncertain.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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CHD Vendee
La Roche-sur-Yon, 85925, France
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