Virtual Reality Opens New Worlds for Ohio Hospice Patient

Ohio hospice patient David was looking forward to a Mynd Virtual Reality (MyndVR) experience ever since he was told it was coming. His nurse Kara thought of David right away when the program was first introduced to the local Elara Caring branch. Since David doesn’t get to leave the house often, she knew this could bring him some encouragement and joy.

Elara Caring hospice volunteer Sai was trained by the Elara Caring team, and then Sai was paired with David for their initial visit and VR experience. The day the system was finally brought over, David lit up.

David said, “It’s so relaxing and gets your mind away from what’s currently going on. What you get to see is just unbelievable, and I just feel so much better after my VR session than before I started it.”

Sai enjoyed introducing the experience to David. The two hit it off right away.

“The VR experience has allowed Dave to regain his enjoyment of the outdoors. From ‘laying’ in a field with puppies to ‘traveling’ to countries he hasn’t experienced before, the VR experience consistently brings a smile to his face. Rather than being a distraction, it seems to create real, awe-inspiring experiences for Dave. It also gives us more to talk about!” Sai said.

David’s nurse Kara was all smiles when she watched David try it out for the first time.

“Every time the VR is talked about, a smile so wide from ear to ear is displayed upon his face. The joy, happiness and genuine smiles the VR has brought to my patients makes my heart so full,” she said.

To learn more about hospice and how added support could benefit your loved one, get in touch with your local Elara Caring team.