VR Music Therapy Helps Palliative Care Patients Relax

KEYWORDS - Music therapy | Virtual reality | Palliative care | 360-degree video | Relaxation | Emotional well-being

Reviewed Study: Virtual Reality-Based Music Therapy in Palliative Care

INTRODUCTION

Palliative care focuses on comfort and quality of life for patients with serious illness. Music therapy has well-documented emotional benefits, while VR nature experiences can create a sense of presence and calm. Combining these interventions may enhance their individual effects and provide patients with an accessible, non-pharmacological form of relief.

METHODS

Seventeen inpatients at a palliative care unit participated in two VR music therapy sessions over consecutive days. Each patient collaborated with a music therapist to create a personalised playlist of meaningful songs. These playlists were then integrated into 360° VR videos showing natural environments such as forests, oceans, and mountains. Patients wore a VR headset while listening to the chosen music. The study assessed feasibility (ability to deliver sessions in various care contexts), usability (ease of use and comfort), and perceived benefit through patient interviews and observation. Special attention was given to delivering the intervention even in high-dependency areas like intensive care.

RESULTS

The combined VR music therapy was highly rated for usability and comfort, with patients adapting quickly to the technology. Most participants described feeling more relaxed, with reduced tension and anxiety after the sessions. Some reported positive reminiscence, describing pleasant life memories triggered by the music and visuals. Importantly, the therapy was successfully delivered in both regular and intensive care settings, demonstrating logistical feasibility. Patients enjoyed the immersive natural environments, which complemented the emotional impact of the music. No adverse effects such as nausea or dizziness were reported. The study’s findings indicate that combining personalised music therapy with immersive VR nature can offer meaningful emotional relief in palliative care contexts.

CONCLUSION

This pilot study demonstrates that VR music therapy is a feasible and well-received intervention for palliative care patients, even in challenging care environments. The combination of familiar music and immersive natural scenery appeared to promote relaxation, emotional comfort, and positive reflection. While the study was small, its promising results support further investigation into how such interventions can be integrated into regular palliative care routines. Future research should examine long-term benefits, different content types, and the potential for broader application beyond palliative care settings.

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Citation: Virtual Reality-Based Music Therapy in Palliative Care – Brungardt, A., Childs, A., & Prochaska, A. (2021). https://doi.org/10.1089/jpm.2020.0403

Conflict of Interest Declaration: While this study used 4 of Atmosphaeres’ 360 VR Stock Videos, the study was conducted fully independently by the study authors and without any involvement of the video creators Eric & Susanne Fassbender (Atmosphaeres).

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