Machines equipped with virtual reality (VR) technology can now “help” people experience feelings they are very curious about but would never want to encounter in real life: The sensation of dying. What have those who have undergone this experience described?
As human beings with normal thoughts, everyone has likely pondered questions about life – and what happens after we no longer exist. The query of what will happen when “everything is over”—that is, the moment of leaving this world—leaves many wondering what that feeling might be like.
Of course, for most people, these thoughts can be quite frightening, yet many still seek answers.
Some individuals have had near-death experiences—where they believed they had died but then awakened—describe that in those (supposedly) final moments of life, they could see themselves or perceive a path leading to a bright light…
A person experiencing the sensation of leaving this life using VR technology. (Photo: Croom12).
Now in Melbourne (Australia), there is a program that uses VR technology to provide individuals with a similar experience to when they “pass away”. Participants go through a simulation of the gradual process of dying, from cardiac arrest to brain death.
Participants are invited to lie on a (mock) hospital bed and are connected to a heart rate monitor. Clearly, this experience is not comfortable, so staff are always present to turn off the equipment if participants cannot endure it.
Staff are always nearby to assist participants at any time. (Photo: Croom12).
A participant from Melbourne recounted: “The experience was anxiety-inducing and frightening. You lie down on the (mock) hospital bed, the bed shakes, and you begin to ‘die’. Doctors are standing around. You can see yourself (because you are wearing VR goggles) and see the doctors trying to save you, but they can’t. Then, you feel like you are floating in the air, passing by people in the room, just drifting away…” The feeling at that moment can likely only be understood through actual experience.
This activity is part of Melbourne Now, a massive cultural festival in Melbourne featuring over 200 artists—many of whom have unique and sometimes bold ideas.
Many participants join to understand the experience of dying. (Photo: Twitter).
Attendees at the festival have mixed opinions. Some believe this is an interesting idea and want to participate, while others worry that the experience of dying may “actually be detrimental to mental health”. However, this is just one activity at the festival, and each person should assess their own tolerance to decide whether or not to participate.
