Is virtual reality a panacea to promote the health of people with neurodevelopmental disabilities? : current evidence, challenges and the way forward

Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly being used in healthcare with numerous applications from exposure therapy in mental healthcare to pain management in various health conditions. VR also has application to support people with neurodevelopmental disabilities, who experience poorer mental and physical health and greater inequities than those without disabilities. This chapter discusses the latest evidence in therapeutic VR to improve health outcomes for people with neurodevelopmental disabilities. Positive outcomes are described in relation to communication and social skills, motor skills and psychological well-being. While evidence is promising in relation to improving health outcomes, concerns remain with building a strong evidence base. This includes the robustness of studies, demonstrating positive outcomes, the paucity of co-design with those with lived experience of disability and the critical need for implementation and efficacy of interventions to be studied concurrently. Critical safety and ethical concerns are also discussed, particularly regarding immersive VR using head-mounted displays and the need for choice and control over use. The role of clinicians and support professionals/carers and equity of access are important considerations and are discussed with recommendations. The findings indicate that VR may be a useful therapeutic tool, but not a panacea for all health concerns, and warrant more exploration for validation.