VR making a big impact on palliative care
Healthcare providers are starting to use virtual reality (VR) headsets more and more for patient care, providing moments of escape for individuals who need them the most. At Carefor Hospice in Ontario, for example, VR technology was brought in to help palliative care patients explore the world without even venturing outside.
According to a new report from CBC in Canada, the staff at Carefor Hospice raised more than $5,000 to cover the cost of the new technology. And that purchase has already made a massive difference to patients, who use the headset for 15 minutes at a time to avoid any potential issues related to discomfort or dizziness.
“The VR is really a great alternative and it helps complete their bucket list,” said Shannon Ball, supportive services coordinator at Carefor Hospice. “It gives them hope and reduces boredom and depression. And studies show it can actually reduce physical pain.”
One wheelchair-bound patient mentioned in the story was able to ride a horse using the VR headset. Another patient, a 59-year-old father diagnosed with glioblastoma, puts on the headset to see sights such as the “expansive sky in Norway.”
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Michael has more than 18 years of experience as a professional writer and editor. He has written at length about cardiology, radiology, artificial intelligence and other key healthcare topics.