01/30/2024
Healthcare facilities that manage patients with dementia have reported success in reducing confusion and agitation when using baby dolls or toy dogs and cats. Despite ample anecdotal evidence to support the value of tactile nonpharmacologic interventions, acute-care researchers had not previously explored the feasibility of conducting formal studies to understand the efficacy of baby doll therapy (BDT).
A team of Cleveland Clinic nurse investigators addressed this knowledge gap with a pilot study aimed at evaluating the viability of further BDT research. Led by assistant nurse managers Ashley Hall, MSN, RN, and Elizabeth Cai, MSN, RN, CMSRN, the research team not only found BDT worthy of future study, but also confirmed that the therapy itself may provide benefit to patients with dementia.
Hall explains that the feasibility of future research on BDT hinged on answers to several key questions, including whether the dolls would be well received by both male and female patients and their families. “The answer to our primary question was overwhelmingly yes!” she says. “Almost without exception, patients received the dolls with open arms. It was actually quite astonishing to watch how they interacted with their ‘babies.’”
“Both caregivers and family members expressed witnessing notable changes in patient demeanor, and we were amazed by the positive feedback we received.”
While more research is needed, ultimately the pilot study demonstrates that BDT appears to be associated with a reduction in agitation behaviours. Definitely an interesting non-pharmacologic intervention to keep a close eye on!
Pilot study confirms feasibility of conducting additional research on the novel treatment
