Abstract Title: Effects of animal-assisted therapy on agitated behaviors and social interactions of older adults with dementia. Abstract Source: Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen. 2003 Nov-Dec;18(6):353-8. PMID: 14682084 Abstract Author(s): Nancy E Richeson Article Affiliation: Department of Recreation and Leisure Studies, College of Nursing and Health Professions, University of Southern Maine, Portland, Maine, USA. Abstract: The effects of a therapeutic recreation intervention using animal-assisted therapy (AAT) on the agitated behaviors and social interactions of older adults with dementia were examined using the Cohen-Mansfield Agitation Inventory and the Animal-Assisted Therapy Flow Sheet. In a pilot study, 15 nursing home residents with dementia participated in a daily AAT intervention for three weeks. Results showed statistically significant decreases in agitated behaviors and a statistically significant increase in social interaction pretest to post-test. Article Published Date : Nov 01, 2003