Tag: VR in Skilled Nursing Rehab

Enhancing Group Therapy with Virtual Reality in SNF Rehab 

Enhancing Group Therapy with Virtual Reality in SNF Rehab 

The highlights:

  • Integrating virtual reality (VR) into group therapy enhances patient engagement and functional outcomes, transforming the rehabilitation experience
  • Effective implementation involves selecting collaborative VR activities, fostering healthy competition, and adapting experiences to group dynamics for maximum benefit
  • ACP will soon launch a new technology that helps clinicians seamlessly incorporate VR into group therapy

As skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) navigate an increasingly competitive landscape, they constantly seek innovative ways to improve patient outcomes, drive operational efficiencies, and differentiate their rehabilitation programs. We recently covered how VR could transform skilled rehab. By thoughtfully integrating VR into group therapy sessions, clinicians can tap into synergies that address the key goals of modern SNFs: boosting patient engagement, enhancing functional outcomes, and optimizing the efficiency of care delivery.

The Synergies of VR and Group Therapy 

The Synergies of VR and Group Therapy

We have explored the individual benefits of VR and group therapy in SNF rehab. VR has proven to be an innovative solution that can increase patient engagement, encourage longer and more intense therapy sessions, and positively impact patient mood.1, 2 Meanwhile, group therapy settings have been shown to foster a supportive environment that enhances socialization, promotes healthy competition, and allows for more cost-effective care delivery. 

Together, group therapy and VR unlock a world of possibilities. The immersive, interactive nature of VR can take the group therapy experience to new heights, motivating patients to push the boundaries of their abilities while enjoying the camaraderie and encouragement of their peers. The social dynamics of group therapy can further amplify the engagement and therapeutic value of the VR experience. 

Practical Strategies for Incorporating VR into Group Therapy 

So, how can SNF clinicians harness the power of this dynamic duo? Here are some practical strategies for incorporating VR into group therapy sessions: 

Choose VR Experiences that Promote Collaboration 

Select VR applications that encourage teamwork and group interaction. For example, choose multiplayer activities where patients work together to achieve a shared goal or VR environments that simulate real-world tasks requiring coordination. 

Foster Friendly Competition  

Competition knows no age! Incorporate VR activities that allow patients to compete against their peers in a fun, supportive environment. Healthy rivalry can boost engagement and motivation, pushing participants to go beyond their perceived limits. 

Leverage Dual-Task Training 

Use VR to introduce cognitive challenges alongside physical exercise. As patients navigate the virtual world, have them perform tasks that engage both the body and the mind, such as remembering sequences, solving puzzles, or making decisions. This dual-task training can enhance overall functional abilities. 

Adapt VR Experiences to Group Dynamics  

When choosing VR applications, be mindful of group size, patient abilities, and therapy goals. Customize the virtual environments and tasks to ensure all participants are appropriately challenged and can actively engage with each other. 

Complement VR with Traditional Group Activities 

While VR can be an excellent supplement to group therapy, it should never wholly replace more conventional group activities. Combine VR experiences with traditional group activities to create a well-rounded rehab program. 

Elevating Rehabilitation Outcomes with VR-Enhanced Group Therapy

By combining evidence-based group therapy and VR, clinicians can foster better engagement, improved functional outcomes, and a heightened sense of community that supports the whole patient. 

This powerful combination can change how patients experience rehabilitation, which is why we are excited to share that we will soon launch a new, immersive VR technology that integrates seamlessly into group therapy – keep an eye out for more on that soon. In the meantime, as you continue to explore ways to optimize your skilled nursing rehabilitation program, consider the transformative potential of VR-enhanced group therapy. This dynamic combination can help you deliver exceptional care and position your facility for long-term success. 

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  1. Kizmaz, E., Telli Atalay, O., Çetin, N., & Uğurlu, E. (2024). Virtual reality for COPD exacerbation: A randomized controlled trial. Respiratory Medicine, 230, 107696. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rmed.2024.107696 ↩︎
  2. D’Cunha, N. M., Nguyen, D., Naumovski, N., McKune, A. J., Kellett, J., Georgousopoulou, E. N., Frost, J., & Isbel, S. (2019). A mini-review of virtual reality-based interventions to promote well-being for people living with dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Gerontology, 65(4), 430-440. https://doi.org/10.1159/000500040  ↩︎

As skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) navigate an increasingly competitive landscape, they constantly seek innovative ways to improve patient outcomes, drive operational efficiencies, and differentiate their rehabilitation programs. We recently covered how VR could transform skilled rehab. Learn how you can combine VR with group therapy to boost patient engagement, enhance functional outcomes, and optimize care delivery.

Reimagining Rehabilitation with Virtual Reality in Skilled Nursing Facilities

Reimagining Rehabilitation with Virtual Reality in Skilled Nursing Facilities 

The highlights: 

  • Virtual reality (VR) has been shown to boost patient motivation and engagement with their treatment. 
  • VR can push patients to train longer, harder, and with greater intensity, leading to better rehabilitation outcomes.  
  • By allowing clinicians to maximize their skilled time and incorporate dual-task training, VR can optimize treatment efficiency and effectiveness. 

Virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), offering innovative solutions to common clinical challenges. As the evidence supporting VR in skilled rehab grows, it’s clear that this technology can reshape patient care and outcomes. Let’s dive into how incorporating VR into therapy has the potential to transform rehab in the SNF space.  

The Growing Evidence for VR in Skilled Nursing 

VR has been studied for a variety of diagnoses, including stroke1, Parkinson’s disease2, multiple sclerosis3, dementia4, and pain5. Over the years, research has consistently shown VR’s potential to enhance patient engagement and motivation while increasing the repetitions and duration of exercise—critical factors in successful rehabilitative outcomes. 

Key Benefits of VR in SNF Settings

Enhancing Patient Engagement 

One of the more challenging aspects of skilled nursing rehab is keeping patients engaged and motivated6 to participate in treatment. The immersive nature of VR creates a welcome distraction for many patients, allowing them to push their limits while experiencing something new, exciting, and even fun.  

Motivating Longer, More Effective Sessions 

In addition to boosting patient engagement, incorporating VR into therapy sessions has also shown a remarkable ability to motivate patients to train longer, harder, and at a greater intensity. This is a recipe for maximizing therapeutic benefits and accelerating recovery.

Improving Mood  

Beyond the physical benefits, VR can positively impact patients’ overall well-being. There is evidence that patients who use VR experience mood improvements and reductions in apathy7. Improved mood resulting from VR experiences can significantly influence engagement and recovery, addressing both physical and emotional aspects of healing. 

Optimizing Therapy Efficiency and Effectiveness 

Key Benefits of VR in SNF Settings

Dual-Task Training 

VR offers an excellent opportunity to introduce dual-task training, where patients work on one activity while simultaneously engaging in other tasks (cognitive or motor). This approach has been shown to be beneficial for postural control, mobility, and cognitive functions88. 

Maximizing Skilled Time 

For clinicians, VR offers a clinically effective means to maximize patients’ therapy sessions. Therapists can focus on modifying patient parameters to optimize each individual’s exercises, ensuring every minute of therapy is as productive as possible. 

Embracing the Future of Skilled Rehabilitation 

There is no question that, when used thoughtfully, virtual reality is making a positive impact on patient outcomes. By embracing the potential of VR, skilled nursing facilities can offer more engaging, effective, and efficient therapy programs that reimagine the entire rehabilitation experience.

Embracing the Future of Skilled Rehabilitation 

There is no question that, when used thoughtfully, virtual reality is making a positive impact on patient outcomes. By embracing the potential of VR, skilled nursing facilities can offer more engaging, effective, and efficient therapy programs that reimagine the entire rehabilitation experience.  

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  1. Karamians, R., Proffitt, R., Kline, D., Gauthier, L.V. (2019, Dec 7). Effectiveness of virtual reality – and gaming-based interventions for upper extremity rehabilitation post-stroke: A meta-analysis. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, (Epub ahead of print), DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2019.10.195 ↩︎
  2. Triegaardt, J., Han, T. S., Sada, C., Sharma, S., Sharma, P. (2019). The role of virtual reality on outcomes in rehabilitation of Parkinson’s disease: Meta-Analysis and systematic review in 1031 Participants. Neurological Sciences, (Epub ahead of print). DOI: 10.10007/s10072-019-04144-3 ↩︎
  3. Porras, D. C., Siemonsma, P., Inzelberg, R., Zeilig, G., Plotnik, M. (2019). Advantages of virtual reality in the rehabilitation of balance and gait: Systematic review. Neurology, 90(22), 1017-1025. DOI: 10.1212 WNL.0000000000005603 ↩︎
  4. Coyle, H., Traynor, V., Solowij, N. (2015). Computerized and virtual reality cognitive training for individuals at high risk of cognitive decline: Systematic review of the literature. American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 23(4), 335-359. DOI: 10.1016/j.jagp.2014.04.009 ↩︎
  5. Mallari, B., Spaeth, E. K., Goh, H., Boyd, B. S. (2019). Virtual reality as an analgesic for acute and chronic pain in adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Pain Research, 12, 2053-2085. DOI 10.2147/JPR.S200498 ↩︎
  6. Kizmaz, E., Telli Atalay, O., Çetin, N., & Uğurlu, E. (2024). Virtual reality for COPD exacerbation: A randomized controlled trial. Respiratory Medicine, 230, 107696. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rmed.2024.107696 ↩︎
  7. D’Cunha, N. M., Nguyen, D., Naumovski, N., McKune, A. J., Kellett, J., Georgousopoulou, E. N., Frost, J., & Isbel, S. (2019). A mini-review of virtual reality-based interventions to promote well-being for people living with dementia and mild cognitive impairment. Gerontology, 65(4), 430-440. DOI: 10.1159/000500040 ↩︎
  8. Scarmagnan, G. S., Lino, T. B., Pimentel, D.E., Silva, A. V. B., da Silva Ramos, I. M., Christofoletti, G. (2024). Benefits of a dual-task training on motor and cognitive functions in community-dwelling older adults. American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, 103(5), 377-383. DOI: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000002352 ↩︎

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Virtual reality (VR) is revolutionizing rehabilitation in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), offering innovative solutions to common clinical challenges. As the evidence supporting VR in skilled rehab grows, it’s clear that this technology can reshape patient care and outcomes. Check out our latest blog to find out how incorporating VR into therapy has the potential to transform rehab in the SNF space.