"I Don't Get to Feel This Good Very Often:" Virtual Reality Intervention for Veterans Receiving End-of-Life Care.

Abstract

While virtual reality (VR) is a valuable therapeutic tool, its utility for hospice and palliative care (HPC) is understudied. We explored the use of VR with patients receiving inpatient HPC. Mixed methods study examining feasibility and clinical outcomes of a VR program. Twenty-five veterans with complex medical and psychiatric comorbidities at a Veterans Affairs hospital participated. Data related to self-reported pain and well-being, as well as session feedback, were gathered. Despite some challenges with setup, 91% reported enjoyment, and 90% would participate again. Travel experiences were most popular, allowing reminiscence and touring of bucket-list destinations. Program feedback suggested improvements in anxiety, mood, and boredom. Results demonstrate the use of VR to facilitate meaningful engagement and improve psychological well-being for veterans receiving HPC. Additionally, opportunities for socialization and reminiscence, even while bedbound, increased. These findings support further exploration of VR as an intervention in HPC.