Virtual Reality Therapeutic Art for Adult Hospitalized Patients and Caregivers: A Mixed-Methods Project

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Innovation
• Digital Therapeutics
• Patient Experience

Background:

• Hospitalized patients often experience increased stress, anxiety, and depression, which can impede recovery.
• Mindfulness therapies offer a holistic approach to patient care, effectively reducing anxiety and depression.
• Innovative adjunctive therapies are needed to further support patient well-being during hospitalization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation and impact of a virtual reality (VR) therapeutic art program as an adjunct to traditional mindfulness therapies.
• To assess patient satisfaction and the effect of VR on the overall hospitalization experience.
• To explore patient interest in additional VR-based therapeutic offerings.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods quality improvement initiative was conducted at Stanford Health Care from February to June 2024.
• The program involved 105 participants over 84 cumulative hours, utilizing VR for therapeutic art.
• Patient satisfaction and experience were measured via surveys, with data analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• The VR therapeutic art program demonstrated substantial improvements in patient experience.
• 85% of participants recommended the program, and 97.5% reported positive impacts from VR engagement.
• Thematic analysis revealed key benefits including escape, distraction, therapeutic effects, enjoyment, and positive facilitator interactions.

Conclusions:

• Virtual reality (VR) serves as an effective adjunct to conventional mindfulness therapies for hospitalized patients.
• The VR therapeutic art program significantly improved the inpatient experience, offering therapeutic benefits and positive engagement.
• Participants expressed strong interest in expanded VR offerings, including virtual mindfulness and meditation programs.