Virtual reality is making another breakthrough. This time with its potential to replace pain medication for seriously ill, hospitalized children. Starlight Xperience is bringing the VR magic to these kids and make their unavoidable hospital visit as comfortable, fun and positive as possible.
Starlight has partnered with Lenovo and Google to deliver a VR kit. The VR headset is pre-loaded with more than 20 virtual reality experiences that are specifically customized for the use of hospitals. It works as a distraction therapy for kids to help them cope with their fear of treatment.
“Starlight is a 35-year old charity with a mission to make the hospital experience for seriously ill kids and family as positive, fun, and comfortable as possible. We see children getting immersed in VR during painful medical procedures and the immersive distraction therapy lessens the need for heavy painkillers and anesthesia. VR can even take the place of pain killers in some cases”
~ Chris Helfrich, Starlight CEO
Starlight Xperience includes basic games which can be made more challenging when needed with the help of a click. This lets them handle cognitive load on the kid and force them to focus more on the task at hand, especially during their most painful points.
Although these experiences offer a good variety for children, Starlight has partnered with Disney as well. This lets them deliver familiar and likable characters to children in an interactive space. They are working to improve the life of seriously ill children and make them experience the magic and wonders of child life. Interested hospitals can contact them at their official website to request their kit.