Stratford Village Therapists Prescribe Nintendo® Wii™ for Residents

MIDLAND, MICHIGAN – Physical therapy can be a painful and grueling experience. However, a new video game system may be just the thing to get senior citizens up, moving and enjoying their physical activity.

At MidMichigan Stratford Village physical therapists are going about therapy in a new way. Six months ago a Nintendo® Wii™ was purchased for the residents as a new therapy method.

Therapies manager Brad Clarkson, O.T.R., believes the new addition to the therapy is beneficial for the residents because it allows them to have fun while still incorporating important rehabilitation activities.

“Wii has given the residents the opportunity to feel like they have exercised when they are done with a game,” Clarkson said. “They are exercising and having fun, too. That’s what we strive for. If they aren’t having fun they won’t push themselves to work harder.”

The Wii is useful because it allows therapists to address several weaknesses including standing, balance, upper and lower extremity strength, range of motion, posture, hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and endurance.

During Wii therapy, residents play a variety of games that allow them to simulate real-life activities, such as, the residents’ favorite games bowling and boxing. Other games include baseball, tennis, golf, and even bull riding. 

Clarkson believes that the boxing game is currently the most beneficial because residents stand while engaging in the game, but at the same time work on balance, endurance and upper extremity strength, all while enjoying themselves.

“The game takes the residents’ minds off of the exercise,” Clarkson said. “They get more involved because it’s a fun activity, but at the same time it is addressing the deficits they have.”

Incorporating the Wii into weekly treatment for residents has seen positive reports from both residents and their family members. In fact, games like bowling and golf give parents and children the chance to engage in these activities together.

The Wii has also become a bonding method between residents. “Two residents can compete against each other in bowling or baseball,” Clarkson said. “Others will gather around to observe and encourage.”

 
MidMichigan Stratford Village provides care for residents in a home-like atmosphere on seven acres of countryside in Midland. Stratford Village offers two levels of care, including The Manor, designed for residents who receive assisted and personal care when needed, and The Nursing Center, which offers care to residents who need rehabilitative services, short-term or long-term nursing care.

Those interested in more information on MidMichigan Stratford Village may call (989) 633-5350 or visit www.midmichigan.org/stratford.