Virtual Reality (VR) has come a long way and evolved from a toy to a tool with great benefits, especially in healthcare. It is an excellent tool that can not only relieve pain. It can also improve a senior’s quality of life while giving the caregiver some free time.
What is virtual reality?
At its core, VR offers users an immersive 3D experience that allows them to interact in a virtual environment. It’s like immersing yourself in a new world with a pair of glasses. Although many know VR for its gaming and entertainment features, its use in healthcare, especially in pain management for seniors, is revolutionary.
How does it work?
The principle of VR’s effectiveness is rooted in distraction therapy. When the brain is immersed in a 3D VR environment, it becomes less responsive to painful stimuli. It’s not just about visual stimuli – many VR modules include sounds, stories and interactions that engage multiple senses, adding to the distraction.
Why VR for pain management?
Recent studies have shown promising results for VR as a pain management tool. When seniors are engaged in a VR experience, their attention shifts from the pain to the virtual environment, effectively distracting them from the discomfort. A University of California study found that VR reduced pain by an average of 24% – a testament to its power in providing relief. Plus, unlike medications that can have side effects, VR is a non-invasive approach, making it a safe alternative.
VR: a drug-free supplement to traditional pain treatment
Beyond mere distraction, VR actively engages the brain in a way that helps block pain signals. The immersive experience not only changes attention but also releases endorphins, which are the body’s natural painkillers. These endorphins reduce the perception of pain, creating a dual mechanism of action. While distraction takes the mind away from unpleasant sensations, neural pathways are occupied by VR stimuli, which prevents pain signals from being received as effectively. VR thus becomes not only an innovative tool but also an effective complement to traditional drug-free pain management techniques. At a time when medication side effects are an increasing concern, VR offers a refreshing and effective alternative for caregivers and patients alike.
Benefits in addition to pain management
In addition to pain relief, VR offers seniors the opportunity to explore worlds, relive old memories, and even take up new hobbies, all in the comfort of their own homes. Imagine a senior visiting the city of their childhood, walking on the beach, or even exploring the universe – the possibilities of VR are endless.
Atena – your partner in elderly care
Incorporating state-of-the-art solutions like VR for the benefit of seniors demonstrates our commitment to redefining senior care. Atena does not only focus on traditional methods. We are constantly adapting and innovating, ensuring that caregivers have the best tools at their disposal.
Care methods are far from the only thing we are working on. As the services we provide are complex, we strive to develop in every possible aspect. For example, just a week ago we introduced brand new CVs for our clients that are designed to contain all the information a person might need. On the other hand, the information is so well organized that everything you need can be found in one or two mouse clicks. More information can be found here.
