At Dutch design week, virtual reality was being explored as a means of addressing psychological issues, such as "death anxiety" in terminally ill patients, with an immersive VR experience titled 'Outrospectre.'
The exhibit was deigned by Frank Kolkman, and aims to stimulate a near-death experience, through evoking an out-of-body experience. To create this emotional experience, the artist used video footage of the surrounding environment, instead of relying on computer-generated images. The device functions using a robotic head that's affixed on a track and equipped with live streaming cameras. Using a VR headset, the user can watch the live video stream as the track moves further from their own body, creating a unique out-of-body experience.
This device is positioning itself as a potential therapy tool for those for the terminally ill.
Near-Death VR Simulators
'Outrospectre' is Addressing 'Death Anxiety' in Terminally Ill Patients
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Reality Therapy - Using VR technology to develop various therapeutic treatments.
2. Immersion Therapy - Create immersive experiences within a safe, controlled environment for therapeutic purposes.
3. Body Disassociation - Developing technology that separates the body from the mind for therapeutic benefit.
Industry Implications
1. Healthcare - Integrating VR technology to improve psychological therapy for patients.
2. Entertainment - Using VR to create immersive experiences for consumers in a variety of settings.
3. Mental Health - Developing technology to provide new treatments and therapies for mental health conditions.