(duplicate) PARO: Introduction and Participatory Action Research (FREGC 14-038)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A Participatory Action Research Project on the introduction, use and evaluation of PARO, the therapeutic robotic seal to residential and inpatient dementia care.
IRAS ID
164437
Contact name
Penny Dodds
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Brighton
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 30 days
Research summary
What: This study explores the introduction of PARO, the therapeutic robotic baby harp seal into the everyday practice within NHS in-patient dementia care settings. This is a Participatory Action Research Project with staff, people with dementia and relatives to explore how to use PARO. We will develop: i) guidance for assessing suitability for using PARO, ii) a good practice guide for the therapeutic and safe use of PARO in an acute dementia setting ; iii) protocol for safe hygienic use iv) system for monitoring and recording the use of PARO in practice; vi) staff development of skills using PARO; v) present emerging ideas about how to use PARO as a therapeutic intervention and ideas for further research
What: Existing research shows PARO has a positive effect on well-being (physiologically and psychologically) and enhances social interactions between people with dementia and between staff and people with dementia.
The voice of people with dementia has been central to our preliminary process, informing emerging ideas for further research. We have input from the Patient Participation Involvement Group (Dementia Theme) from the Trust.
How : The Participatory Action Research Process will last approximately 18 months and during that time the following will occur. 1) staff will generate ideas about how PARO may be used in everyday practice and what needs to be considered to use PARO effectively as a therapeutic intervention in acute dementia in-patient settings. 2) the views of people with dementia & relatives will be captured during the use of PARO 3) the staff experience of using PARO will be captured to explore how this affects thier interactions with people with dementia.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/LO/0469
Date of REC Opinion
8 Jun 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion