What is Virtual Reality (VR)?
Virtual Reality, or VR, is a simulated experience that employs 3D near-eye displays.
Virtual reality is a technology that simulates a computer-generated environment and makes it possible to interact with it in a very realistic way. It is three-dimensional (3D) which includes objects and features that can be manipulated, according to the VRS. Virtual reality is mainly used for gaming purposes and is an exciting new invention in this area. However, virtual reality is also used more frequently for educational, workplace and care purposes and can be used to provide learners with a virtual environment in which to develop skills and knowledge.
How is virtual reality used within care?
Care is one of the biggest adopters of virtual reality to improve quality and skill-level.
VRS states that VR can help with surgery simulation, phobia treatment, robotic surgery and skills training when it comes to medical practitioners. VR can also help those receiving care by gaging the mind through interactive games, puzzles and memory exercises. These VR activities promote mental agility, problem-solving skills and memory recall. This is especially helpful to those living with dementia as it can help maintain cognitive skills, improve mobility and prevent falls. VR technologies have increasingly been considered as potentially valuable tools in dementia-related research and care, according to the NIH.
The benefits of virtual reality for those in care
Pain management
The BBC states that after multiple trials within the NHS, the government says immersive technologies have the potential to transform therapy and healthcare. Immersive VR is used to distract patients during medical procedures which allows them to escape into an alternative reality away from any painful stimuli they may be experiencing.
Distraction
Using VR can distract the user into a more positive world that may be a welcome distraction from any pain or discomfort. VR can come in a varied manner of forms, from beaches and sea landscapes to real-life memories that are familiar to the user. VR can create a positive environment that allows the person to experience life beyond a hospital or care environment.
Virtual exploration
Virtual reality creates computer-generated environments that simulate real-world scenarios or places. Scenes can range from sandy beaches, bustling streets, and outer space, to a picturesque garden scene. Not only that, but some companies can create a personalised VR kit that plays back historical events or memories from a user’s lifetime.
Spiritual support
Virtual reality can be used for mental health purposes to increase confidence and mindfulness and can serve as a guided meditation and relaxation tool. An article from the University of Oxford states that VR-hosted phenomena are interacted with similarly to which people interact with revered concepts such as religion and can offer comfort.
Types of care that currently use virtual reality
Palliative Care
Hospice Care
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