Virtual reality (VR) is a simulation of reality using a high-end user-computer interface that allows real-time simulation and interactions through multiple sensorial channels creating an illusion that the environment exists. VR is increasingly being used in health care settings, including hospice and palliative care with positive effects on pain management. Little is know about the duration of the VR effect. A recent study by Deming and colleagues (2024) sought to learn more about the effects and duration of head-mounted display VR (HMDVR) by showing nature and bucket-list videos to patients nearing the end of life. Thirty adult hospice or palliative care patients participated in the study. Patients complete a revised Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale form before, immediately after, and 2 days after each VR experience. The result of the study suggest that HMDVR may be used for temporary symptom relief at the end of life with minimal adverse effects. Read more…
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