Family video calls in virtual reality: sharing the experience from afar
Isolation is one of the least visible costs of a long hospital stay. Virtual reality can bring distant loved ones closer — not just with a call, but with a shared experience.
During a long hospital stay, technology has already solved part of the distance problem: a video call lets you see and hear someone far away. But something is still missing — the shared experience. Talking is different from doing something together.
Therapeutic virtual reality opens a new possibility: the family doesn't just look at the patient's face, but shares the same immersive environment, in real time.
How the shared experience works
The model is simple and rests on two complementary sides:
- On the patient's side — they wear the virtual reality device and, through the camera, see the family they are talking to.
- On the family's side — from an ordinary browser, they see in real time what the patient is experiencing in the immersive environment.
The result is not a call where each person describes what they see. It is a common experience: both look at the same place and can comment on it, reminisce, and talk from it.
The difference between "I'm looking at the sea" and "we're looking at the sea together" is exactly the difference this feature aims to create.
Why this matters clinically
Social isolation is not only an emotional issue. It is associated with greater anxiety, poorer adherence, and a harder care experience. Maintaining the family bond has real value for patient well-being.
- Reduces the feeling of isolation during long stays or clinical isolation.
- Gives the family an active role, instead of the passive role of simply waiting for news.
- Creates positive shared moments that help balance the hospital experience.
Simple for the family, simple for the team
For a tool to be used, it has to be easy. The family joins from a phone, tablet, or computer, with nothing to install. The clinical team starts the session without complex technical steps.
Important note: this feature is a complement to care and human contact, not a substitute for in-person visits or clinical follow-up. It is always used under the supervision of healthcare professionals and integrated into the care plan.
The role of RVer
RVer is an immersive virtual reality therapy system designed for healthcare environments and certified as a Class I Medical Device by Infarmed, in compliance with the European regulation MDR 2017/745. The family video call feature is built to be simple on both sides — with no collection of patient clinical data.
The goal is clear: use technology to bring people closer, making the care experience more human even when distance imposes limits.
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