A million dollar clinical trial of a new $9,000 dementia therapy robot has found it performed only slightly better than a soft toy, according to Australian Doctor.
The NHMRC-funded research compared Paro, a robotic seal (pictured), with a stuffed toy as a way of helping soothe agitated nursing home patients.
The Japanese "baby harp seal" can open and close its eyes and responds to touch by moving its tail and flippers.
According to the report, residents who handled Paro were more engaged, but also showed anger when other residents tried to handle their "pet".
The Griffith University scientists said the findings raised questions about the cost-effectiveness of the robotic device, saying that "where there are limited resources a soft toy animal maybe used effectively with a person with dementia".
And while we're on the subject of pet therapy, US audio book producer Audible has launched a service encouraging animals to listen to classic literature.
Dubbed 'Audible for Dogs,' the offering is claimed to keep your canine calm and happy when you leave for work.
It's backed by famous 'dog whisperer' Cesar Millan who cited 2015 UK research that showed listening to audio books rather than music reduced stress in dogs.
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