This pilot study aims to determine the safety and feasibility of using a virtual reality (VR) program in hemodialysis patients. Never before has there been a total immersive VR program in hemodialysis patients. Therefore, we are testing the potential side effects of using VR in hemodialysis patients. Hemodialysis patients routinely exhibit symptoms of nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, etc. and these are similar adverse side effects of using VR. We want to know if using VR will bring on these symptoms or possibly exacerbate these already occurring symptoms.

Our VR program centers on mindfulness in hopes to initiate a full positive psychology VR program in the future with the goal to reduce depressive symptoms in hemodialysis patients.

For more information contact graduate student Brett Burrows at bburrows@illinois.edu.