2022, Teni, a 14-year-old patient at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), exemplified the impact of VR on patient recovery. Diagnosed with sepsis, Teni’s physical health improved after weeks of treatment, but her mood remained low, delaying her discharge. A VR session organized by Kunle Adewale’s outreach program changed that. Using VR, Teni toured distant locations, swam with dolphins, and engaged in guided meditations, which lifted her spirits and enabled her recovery.Similarly, Tunde, a 12-year-old undergoing dialysis for renal disease, showed improved responsiveness and cooperation with treatment after participating in a VR session. These cases highlight how VR can act as a psychological catalyst in the recovery process by distracting patients from pain and stress while enhancing their mental state.
The Science Behind VR in Healthcare
VR technology uses motion-sensing headsets to immerse users in a 360-degree virtual environment. Patients can explore underwater worlds, visit iconic landmarks, or participate in therapeutic exercises. By focusing entirely on the virtual experience, the brain temporarily disengages from pain or negative emotions, creating lasting positive effects. This technique has proven effective in pain management, cognitive rehabilitation, and mental health care.Kunle Adewale and his team have made VR accessible to patients with various conditions, including sickle cell anemia, cancer, and terminal illnesses, recognizing the mind-body connection in effective treatment.
A Vision Rooted in Art and Compassion
Adewale’s journey began with his background as a visual artist and a desire to use art as a tool for social change. After graduating with a degree in Fine and Applied Arts from Obafemi Awolowo University, he noticed the therapeutic impact of art on his students, particularly those with learning challenges. This inspired him to explore art therapy, leading to the establishment of Tender Arts Nigeria in 2013 and later Arts in Medicine Projects in 2016.Over the years, Adewale has collaborated with healthcare institutions to bring art-based therapy to diverse demographics, from children in oncology wards to elders in residential care.
Expanding VR to Elderly Care
Adewale has also used VR to engage elderly patients, helping them relive cherished memories or experience activities they can no longer physically partake in. At an eldercare facility in Lagos, VR sessions allowed participants to attend virtual concerts, revisit significant locations, and reconnect with their past. These experiences combat loneliness and depression, common among the elderly, fostering joy and emotional well-being.
Overcoming Challenges
The high cost of VR headsets and sessions presents a barrier to widespread adoption, particularly in a country where a significant portion of the population lives below the poverty line. Adewale addresses this by securing sponsorships from organizations like the Alzheimer’s Association and the Atlantic Institute. These partnerships allow him to provide free VR sessions, ensuring equitable access for all participants.Additionally, his team uses pre-existing VR content to reduce production costs, making the program sustainable while maintaining variety and quality.
Managing Risks and Side Effects
While VR has transformative potential, its overuse can lead to issues like escapism and addiction. Adewale advocates for moderated usage, ensuring that VR is integrated thoughtfully into therapeutic contexts. He emphasizes that patients should take breaks if they experience discomfort, prioritizing their overall well-being.
A Lasting Impact on Healthcare
Kunle Adewale’s innovative use of VR exemplifies the potential of technology to revolutionize healthcare, particularly in underserved regions. By merging art, technology, and compassion, he has created a model that addresses the psychological and emotional needs of patients, enhancing their recovery and quality of life. His work not only challenges conventional healthcare practices but also paves the way for broader applications of VR in therapeutic settings.
