Animal-shaped toys as therapeutic tools for patients with severe dementia

An animal-shaped toy was provided as a therapeutic tool to patients with severe dementia during a therapeutic program and after dinner. The occupational therapist delivered three animal-shaped toys-a gorilla, a tiger and a dog-during the therapeutic program. These toys performed amusing actions. The occupational therapist observed the activities of the patients and classified them into six categories (no reaction, close observation, talking, clapping, patting the toy, taking care of the toy). The total duration of activities during the period of the therapeutic program was recorded. Most of the patients were interested in the toys, and they looked much happier and less agitated. They became accustomed to the toy dog day by day. The animal-shaped toy is a useful tool for occupational therapy.