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What if some of the most meaningful moments at the end of life could still be experienced—no matter the physical limitations?
In this episode, Kathleen Benton and VR innovator Teri Yarbrow reveal how virtual reality is reshaping hospice and palliative care by restoring something often lost in modern medicine—human experience. As care becomes increasingly clinical and documentation-driven, VR creates space for patients to reconnect with meaning, beauty, and identity beyond their diagnosis.
The impact is rooted in how the brain responds to immersion. Through presence (feeling transported), embodiment (shifting out of “patient” identity), and agency (regaining choice), VR helps reduce pain and anxiety while restoring a sense of control. For patients who can no longer travel, move, or explore, these experiences are not trivial—they are transformative.
The stories are powerful. A hospice patient skydives. An ALS patient explores space. A fragile palliative care patient surfs and leaves with renewed energy. Each moment underscores a critical insight: when experiences are thoughtfully matched to a patient’s emotional state, VR becomes a form of care—not just distraction.
At its deepest level, this work is about awe. The feeling of encountering something bigger than ourselves—oceans, stars, vast landscapes—can bring peace, perspective, and even spiritual grounding. Through VR, awe becomes accessible at the bedside, reminding patients that even in limitation, there is still room for connection, beauty, and meaning.
Highlights:
- VR is emerging as a powerful tool in hospice and serious illness care
- Three mechanisms drive its impact: presence, embodiment, and agency
- Real patient stories demonstrate measurable emotional and physical benefits
- Matching VR experiences to patient needs is key to effectiveness
- Awe is not a luxury—it’s a therapeutic necessity at the end of life
Guest:
Kathleen Benton, Chief Executive Officer, Hospice Savannah, Inc. and
Co-Author of the book, Virtual Reality for Serious Illness;
Teri Yarbrow, Founder of "Creating AWE", President of Magika VRx and Co-Author of the book, Virtual Reality for Serious Illness
Host:
Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TELEIOS, author of The Anatomy of Leadership
The Anatomy of Leadership podcast explores the art and science of leadership through candid, insightful conversations with thought leaders, innovators, and change-makers from a variety of industries. Hosted by Chris Comeaux, each episode dives into the mindsets, habits, and strategies that empower leaders to thrive in complex, fast-changing environments. With topics ranging from organizational culture and emotional intelligence to navigating disruption and inspiring teams, the show blends real-world stories with practical takeaways. The goal is simple yet ambitious: to equip leaders at every level with the tools, perspectives, and inspiration they need to lead with vision, empathy, and impact.
https://www.teleioscn.org/anatomy-of-leadership