Evaluation of the Effects of Virtual Nature Therapy on Emotional Wellbeing in Oncology Waiting Rooms
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| Year of publication | 2024 |
| Type | Conference abstract |
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| Description | Objective: The objective of this pilot study was to investigate the emotional impact of virtual nature therapy, delivered through audio-visual recordings, on patients in oncology waiting rooms. The study aimed to assess the potential of virtual nature therapy to improve emotional states compared to traditional waiting room environments. Methods: A partially randomised controlled trial was conducted with 117 oncology patients. The Self-Assessment Manikin and the modified Emotional Thermometer were used to measure emotional valence, arousal, thought control, sadness, anxiety and pain before and after patients were exposed to virtual forest, sea, news videos, or typical condition. Baseline distress was assessed using the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6). Results: Patients exposed to virtual forest and sea videos showed significant improvements in emotional valence and reduced arousal, suggesting a calming and uplifting effect. No significant changes were observed in the control and news groups, with small effects on secondary outcomes of anxiety, sadness and pain. Conclusion implications: The findings suggest that virtual forest and sea videos can positively influence patients' emotional well-being in oncology waiting rooms, highlighting the potential of integrating virtual mental health support into healthcare settings to improve patients' experience of care. |
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