2024 has been an extraordinary year for NeuronsVR. From creating culturally immersive virtual reality programs to improving pain management in aged care, our personalised VR therapy has made a meaningful impact on residents, families, and care providers across Australia. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights and moments that truly defined our year.
Reconnecting First Nations Residents to Culture and Country
One of our most significant achievements this year has been the development of culturally immersive VR therapy for First Nations residents. Partnering with ARRCS and First Nations Elders, we designed a VR library featuring ancestral lands, cultural activities & rituals, and culturally significant landscapes.
For residents living with dementia, these experiences have been especially powerful. The familiar sounds, stories, and language have helped reconnect individuals with their heritage, offering a renewed sense of identity, comfort, and pride. We’re honoured to have played a part in creating programs that are deeply meaningful and healing.
Read more about this project at: Advancing Culturally Rooted Therapy for First Nations Residents Who Live with Dementia
Transforming Pain Management through Virtual Reality at Amana Living
Pain management for residents with dementia is an ongoing challenge in aged care. This year, our VR therapy demonstrated how non-pharmacological solutions can change lives.
At Amana Living in Western Australia, we worked with a resident experiencing extreme pain during wound care. Previously, even medication offered little relief. Using NeuronsVR, he was transported to a peaceful field surrounded by cows and cattle dogs—a setting that resonated with his rural background. Staff watched in amazement as the resident relaxed, engaged with the VR experience, and showed no signs of distress. Wound care was completed smoothly without the need for sedation. Moments like these highlight the life-changing potential of VR therapy in aged care.
Read more about this project at: Transforming Pain Management during Wound Care with Virtual Reality
A NSW Health Study: How St George Hospital used NeuronsVR
Recognising the challenges faced by patients during the late afternoon ‘agitation’ period—characterised by heightened confusion and anxiety—NeuronsVR has provided an innovative alternative to traditional treatments like psychotropic medications at St George Hospital’s Acute Dementia Ward in Kogarah NSW.
By immersing patients in calming and familiar virtual environments, NeuronsVR therapy has been proven to reduce distress and create a sense of calm that lasts for hours post-session. One standout result from this collaboration is its inclusion in a clinical study led by Olivia Paulik, which was presented at the International Dementia Conference (IDC) 2024. Early findings have shown significant benefits in improving patient wellbeing while minimising reliance on medication. We are proud to have partnered with St George Hospital and NSW Health to set new standards in dementia care.
Read more about that project at: NeuronsVR: Revolutionising Patient Wellbeing at St George Hospital’s Acute Dementia Ward
From City Streets to Sheep Stations: Memories Come to Life with Virtual Reality Therapy Sessions
This year, we’ve worked closely with aged care providers to create personalised VR experiences that reflect residents’ unique stories and backgrounds.
NeuronsVR sessions have sparked more than just memories—they’ve ignited meaningful interactions among residents, families, and staff. Whether it’s reminiscing about working on a fishing trawler, discussing life on the land, or sharing stories of family holidays, our VR experiences have created moments of connection that matter.
- Farm Life Memories: Residents who grew up on sheep stations or rural properties revisited the familiar sights and sounds of country life.
- City Adventures: For those with fond memories of global travel, our VR programs transported them to favourite destinations—Parisian streets, Greek islands, and bustling markets.
- Childhood Connections: Residents experienced joyful sessions revisiting moments from their youth, sparking smiles, laughter, and meaningful conversations.
These tailored experiences reduced stress, sparked emotional connections, and brought comfort to residents—proving the importance of honouring personal histories in care.
Watch some of our Magic Moments with residents around the country.
Supporting Cognitive and Emotional Wellbeing through Virtual Reality
Beyond cultural and personal experiences, NeuronsVR has continued to support residents’ emotional and cognitive wellbeing. Our sessions have:
- Reduced agitation and anxiety during the challenging periods of the day and night.
- Created calming environments for stress relief and relaxation.
- Encouraged meaningful engagement for residents with dementia, helping them stay connected to their surroundings and memories.
Learning From the Experts
This year, we’ve been committed to not only innovate but also to continue learning and evolving. NeuronsVR have participated in studies with University of Technology Sydney, Wollongong University, various clients and attended numerous conferences and aged care industry events, connecting with thought leaders, sharing our success stories, and learning from others in the field. These collaborations have allowed us to stay at the forefront of aged care innovation, ensuring our virtual reality solutions remain responsive to the changing needs of residents and care providers.
Why This Year Has Been So Special
At NeuronsVR, we believe every resident deserves more than standard therapy—they deserve care that is personal, empowering, and uplifting. This year, we’ve been privileged to:
- Partner with leading aged care providers to bring personalised VR therapy to facilities nationwide.
- Create new, tailored programs that address cultural, emotional, and physical needs.
- Make a tangible impact in the lives of residents and their families.
From First Nations cultural programs to pain management breakthroughs, we’re proud of the work we’ve done—and excited for what’s ahead.
Looking Forward to 2025
As we close out this remarkable year, we’re looking forward to continuing our mission of transforming aged care through innovative, personalised virtual reality therapy. Whether it’s reconnecting residents with their culture, evoking cherished memories, or supporting their health and wellbeing, NeuronsVR is committed to delivering life-changing experiences.
Thank you to our partners, aged care providers, and the residents who inspire us every day. Here’s to another year of meaningful connections and groundbreaking care.
Want to learn how NeuronsVR can transform your facility in 2025?
Get in touch with us today to explore VR therapy solutions for your residents.
Visit us at www.neuronsvr.com.
