Virtual reality can help ease suffering—burn victims comforted by cold, wintry scenes.

By this logic, artists and programmers could design a suite of immersive scenes (anxiety—the gentle waves of the ocean lapping the rocky shore;

chills-a cozy cabin with a crackling fire; fever–walking over a frozen lake by snow-covered woods; etc.) that populate with a personalized gallery of selected images and audio

(see article for examples of research in this growing field).
Together, a person suffering in their final days and their loved one can virtually traverse the analgesic environment and encounter favorite images, songs, and videos—sparking reflection, conversation and memories. The project is focused on easing suffering and helping stimulate important moments of connection between the suffering individual and their loved ones. Loved ones unable to physically travel to the terminally ill friend or family member could join them through VR technology–a service ideally provided through a local provider but part of a worldwide network. The VR analgesic gallery is both a virtual escape and something deeply personal.
8 comments
Join the conversation:
Commentsona cover
Joanna Spoth
OpenIDEO
James Takayesu
Carrie Roy
Yuan Wang
Carrie Roy
Aaron Wong