Virtual Reality Technology in Therapy and Treatment
Virtual reality (VR) technology is being increasingly utilized in various fields, including therapy and treatment. Researchers at Yale are using this technology to check navigation in patients with epilepsy and to assist medical students understand spatial relationships within the brain.
Benefits of Virtual Reality in Therapy
The use of virtual reality in therapy offers several advantages, particularly for young patients who can have difficulty attending group sessions or who’re uncomfortable talking in a public session. This technology provides a protected and cozy environment for patients to specific themselves and interact with others.
Overcoming Limitations of Traditional Therapy
Traditional in-person group sessions will be limited by aspects similar to location, time, and patient comfort. Virtual reality technology helps to beat these limitations by allowing patients to take part in therapy sessions from the comfort of their very own homes. This will be especially useful for patients who’ve undergone chemotherapy and will not feel well enough to attend in-person sessions.
Clinical Trials and Results
A clinical trial was conducted involving young adult patients who participated in virtual groups to check outcomes for anxiety, depression, and resilience. The participants were in a position to join the conversation within the guise of avatars, which might express body language and emotions. The initial results showed that the virtual therapy sessions reduced levels of tension and depression.
Development of the App
The app utilized in the clinical trial was developed in collaboration with Foretell Reality. One of the most important priorities was to create avatars that might express body language and emotions, making the experience more realistic and fascinating. The avatars are currently very human-like, however the developers are moving towards more imaginary and fantastical designs.
Expansion and Future Plans
The researchers are planning to expand the virtual therapy sessions to other clinics throughout the hospital. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the best way therapy is conducted, making it more accessible and cozy for patients.
Other Applications of Virtual Reality
Virtual reality technology can be getting used in other areas, similar to education and prevention. The play4REAL XR Lab is using video games to redirect teens to more positive health behaviors. For example, an anti-vaping virtual reality game called Invite Only VR was developed to teach middle school students in regards to the dangers of vaping.
Positive Outcomes
The results of the study on the anti-vaping game showed that playing the sport had a positive impact on the scholars’ behavior and attitudes towards vaping. The game helped to develop "soft skills" that may translate into real-world practice, similar to decision-making and demanding considering.
Conclusion
Virtual reality technology has the potential to revolutionize the best way therapy and treatment are conducted. The advantages of this technology, including increased accessibility and luxury, make it a sexy option for patients who can have difficulty with traditional in-person sessions. As the technology continues to develop and expand, we will expect to see more positive outcomes and a greater impact on the healthcare industry.
