A company specializing in virtual reality (VR) therapy treatments is turning to artificial intelligence (AI) to create immersive environments that could potentially revolutionize therapy treatment, particularly for elderly individuals and those with mobility issues. MyndVR’s Chief Operating Officer, Dave Rawlins, stated that their goal is to bring the world to individuals who are unable to experience it otherwise. They provide 360 content and experiences, allowing residents to venture beyond the confines of their facilities through travel, Broadway shows, and reliving past experiences.
Established in 2016, MyndVR has developed lightweight VR headsets that enable users to engage in gamified environments. These environments help individuals relax, distract themselves from therapy sessions, or boost their moods by allowing them to experience activities they are physically unable to do anymore. The system is currently being used in various settings, such as inpatient rehab centers during the recovery phase, or in the recreational rooms of assisted living homes where seniors can use the technology under the guidance of a director or caregiver.
In addition to healthcare settings, MyndVR has expanded its reach to include hospice care and home health, thereby providing assistance to an underserved population. With an installed base of over 400 facilities, the company is witnessing growth and eagerly exploring opportunities in these particular subsectors. MyndVR is also making strides in aiding veterans coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by offering them emotional comfort and cognitive engagement through VR therapy.
MyndVR prides itself on being the leading VR technology provider for older users. Their headsets are lighter and come with external controls via a tablet, allowing counselors to tailor the session and experience to suit individual needs. While comparisons are often made to Oculus, MyndVR differentiates itself by specifically targeting an older demographic and emphasizing the importance of the counselor-user interaction, which fosters a sense of connection.
Connectivity is a central focus for MyndVR, which is why the company aims to incorporate AI processing to enhance the performance and realism of VR environments. Their ultimate goal is to recreate concert experiences or live shows within the virtual world and enable individuals in healthcare facilities to interact with friends and family members in other locations. Activities like fishing or gardening can be enjoyed within a digital space, thanks to the potential offered by AI technology. However, MyndVR is committed to their core mission and will not employ AI to populate environments with artificial characters.
By utilizing VR therapy in conjunction with AI advancements, MyndVR strives to improve the lives of those who would otherwise be limited in their experiences. Their innovative approach has the potential to transform therapy treatments, especially for the elderly and individuals with limited mobility, by providing them with a means to explore and engage with the world on a whole new level.