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Another Life: Palliative Virtual Reality for Experiencing the World Until the End
Sara Patuzzo Manzati1, Paolo Manganotti2, Giovanni de Manzoni1
1Department of Surgery, Dentistry, Paediatrics and Gynaecology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
Journal of Palliative Care
|February 16, 2026
Summary
Immersive virtual reality (VR) is a safe and feasible option for palliative care (PC) patients, showing preliminary benefits in reducing physical and psychological symptoms. Most patients found VR acceptable and expressed willingness to use it again.
Area of Science:
- Palliative Care Medicine
- Digital Health Interventions
- Symptom Management
Background:
- Immersive virtual reality (VR) presents a novel non-pharmacological approach for symptom management.
- Evidence regarding VR's application in palliative care (PC) settings is currently limited.
- Assessing VR's feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness in PC is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of immersive VR in PC.
- To assess the preliminary effectiveness of VR in alleviating physical and psychological symptoms.
- To measure user satisfaction and willingness for future VR engagement.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive, observational study design was employed across four Italian PC centers.
- Thirteen adult PC patients completed pre- and post-intervention assessments using standardized questionnaires and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs).
- The Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) and ad hoc questionnaires were utilized to collect data on usability, satisfaction, and symptom relief.
Main Results:
- Participants reported high levels of usability and satisfaction with the VR intervention.
- Significant improvements were noted in fatigue, drowsiness, appetite, depression, and anxiety.
- Overall well-being showed a slight increase, with no adverse effects reported.
Conclusions:
- Immersive VR is a feasible, safe, and well-accepted intervention in palliative care.
- Preliminary findings suggest VR offers benefits for physical and psychological symptoms and overall well-being.
- Further research with larger cohorts and control groups is recommended to confirm efficacy and optimize integration into PC programs.
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