Oy Vey VR, Weinstein Hospice Expand Services

In a groundbreaking effort to enhance emotional well-being and redefine compassionate care, Weinstein Hospice — part of Jewish HomeLife, a nonprofit network of seven at-home care services and residential communities supporting every stage of the aging journey — has partnered with Oy Vey VR, Inc. to expand the Weinstein Hospice VR Initiative, a visionary program bringing immersive virtual reality (VR) experiences to patients nearing the end of life.

What began as a pilot initiative has now become a vital part of the hospice experience for dozens of patients — and is now expanding thanks to growing demand and generous community support.

For patients facing physical decline, emotional distress, and cognitive challenges, this program has proven transformative. Using state-of-the-art AutoVR headsets, patients can now soar over mountaintops, walk the streets of Jerusalem, relax on serene beaches, or relive beloved moments through immersive 360-degree video — all from the comfort of their home or care facility.

For Jerry G., a 76-year-old retired Navy captain battling early-stage Parkinson’s disease, the experience has been nothing short of miraculous. Through Oy Vey VR’s custom-curated footage, Jerry was able to virtually stand once more aboard a U.S. aircraft carrier — a ship not unlike the ones he served on over 50 years ago.

“When he put on that headset and saw those jets launching off the deck, I saw a spark in his eyes I hadn’t seen in years,” said his wife, Peggy G. “It wasn’t just memory — it was pride, it was purpose, it was awe. This program gave me back a piece of my husband.”

Jerry’s story is just one of many emerging from the VR Initiative’s expansion, as the program reaches patients from all backgrounds — each with unique dreams, memories, and needs.

Dr. Mirie Manzour, volunteer services manager at Weinstein Hospice added, “Virtual reality is making waves in healthcare. For hospice patients, it gives individuals and their families the opportunity to experience activities they might not otherwise have access to. We have seen the VR sessions give patients a sense of agency and engagement with their loved ones and caregivers. By fulfilling adventure bucket-list goals, such as going on international city tours, or viewing reminiscence content, VR is revolutionizing end-of-life care. Patients can revisit places from their past, re-experience meaningful memories, and embark on adventures they’ve always dreamed of. The VR can be personalized allowing hospice patients to reflect on their lives, connect with fond memories, and ultimately find comfort and peace.”

The expansion is made possible through the support of donors, volunteers, and the ongoing collaboration between Oy Vey VR, Inc., Jewish HomeLife, and Weinstein Hospice.

“Because of the demand and through our generous supporters, we are thrilled to be able to expand the VR program,” said Stuart Steiner, founder of Oy Vey VR. “It is truly the essence of a mitzvah to harness the power of VR technology to provide comfort and reduce anxiety for hospice patients at this difficult stage of life.”

The Weinstein Hospice VR Initiative, with its blend of science, spirituality, and storytelling, is more than just innovation — it’s a revolution in compassion. By allowing patients to revisit cherished memories or fulfill lifelong dreams, Weinstein Hospice and Jewish HomeLife are offering more than care: they’re delivering dignity, meaning, and wonder in life’s final chapter.

For more information on the Weinstein Hospice VR Initiative and how you can support this groundbreaking program, please visit www.jewishhomelife.org/living-options/weinstein-hospice.

To become a VR ambassador (a Weinstein Hospice volunteer) or to inquire about enrolling a candidate in the Weinstein Hospice VR Initiative, contact Steiner at 404-569-7254 or stuart@oyveyvr.org.