Another Life: Palliative Virtual Reality for Experiencing the World Until the End

Objective: Immersive virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising non-pharmacological intervention for symptom relief, yet evidence in PC settings remains limited. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary effectiveness of immersive VR in alleviating physical and psychological symptoms among PC patients, and to assess user satisfaction and willingness to re-engage with the technology. Methods: This study employed a descriptive, observational design with pre- and post-intervention assessments using standardized questionnaires and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). It was conducted in 4 palliative care centers in Italy (Verona, Trieste, “Il Tulipano” Hospice, and “Bassini” Hospice in Milan) and involved 13 adult patients who were able to use a VR headset and independently complete the study questionnaires. PROMs were collected using the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS), alongside ad hoc questionnaires designed to assess personal characteristics, expectations toward the intervention, usability, satisfaction, perceived symptom relief, and intention for future use. Results: Participants reported high usability and satisfaction. The greatest improvements were observed in fatigue (mean reduction −1.7), drowsiness (−1.6), appetite (−1.4), depression, and anxiety (>1-point decrease). Overall well-being increased slightly (+0.5). No adverse effects were reported. Most patients expressed willingness to repeat the VR experience and considered it a meaningful addition to PC services. Individual responses varied. Conclusions: Immersive VR is a feasible, safe, and well-accepted intervention in PC, showing preliminary benefits for physical and psychological symptoms as well as overall well-being. Further research with larger samples, control groups, and long-term follow-up is warranted to confirm efficacy, optimize implementation, and assess integration within multidisciplinary PC programs.