VIRTUAL REALITY AS AN OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY RESOURCE IN THE HOSPITAL SETTING: AN EXPERIENCE REPORT FROM A UNIVERSITY EXTENSION PROJECT

Abstract

Introduction: Hospitalization can have a significant impact on emotional well-being, autonomy, and the organization of daily life, demanding care strategies that transcend the traditional biomedical model. In this context, Occupational Therapy has incorporated innovative technological resources, such as virtual reality, with a view to promoting the humanization of care and mental health. Objective: To report the experience of a university extension project that used virtual reality as an occupational therapy resource with hospitalized patients and their companions in a general hospital. Methodology: This is an experience report developed by students of the Occupational Therapy course, under faculty guidance, in medical and surgical wards of a general hospital in the interior of Espírito Santo. Weekly interventions were carried out using virtual reality glasses, allowing participants to choose immersive videos. Results: Nine people participated, including patients and their companions. Wide acceptance of the technology was observed, with a preference for nature videos and reports of relaxation, distraction, and improved emotional well-being during hospitalization. The narratives highlighted a symbolic break with the hospital environment, a recovery of meaningful occupations, and a strengthening of the therapeutic bond. Conclusion: The experience demonstrated that virtual reality is a viable, safe, and powerful resource for Occupational Therapy in a hospital setting, contributing to the humanization of care, the promotion of mental health, and the re-signification of the hospitalization experience.