Wii games for stroke victims

For example, active video games can help improve mobility when the survivor repetitively practices a movement during a video game. Also, video games help improve cognitive functions such as visual attention, memory, and reaction time because they engage the user with various feedback like visual, auditory, and sometimes haptic feedback.

Although video games are generally seen as more popular with the younger generation, they are a great and engaging way to promote stroke recovery at any age. For those who are uncertain about buying a specific video game due to price or concerns regarding its focus or difficulty level, many video games are available at local libraries to borrow free of charge!

Wondering how you can get started? The following section will share some excellent video games for stroke patients that can help promote recovery. The most effective video games for stroke survivors will encourage players to perform the most repetitions of the exercises and activities necessary to stimulate the brain and promote neuroplasticity.

Video games that exercise cognitive skills such as memory and concentration can help improve critical thinking after stroke.

Our favorite is Brain Age , a Wii game full of brain-boosting activities that you can play by yourself or with friends. The cognitive exercises included in this video game are inspired by the works of neuroscientist, Ryuta Kawashima. The brain is capable of making adaptive changes and improving functions based on the behaviors you repetitively practice. Wii Sports is a video game that can be extremely helpful for stroke patients trying to regain movement in their affected side.

It includes various interactive games including bowling, golf, and tennis. Wii Sports encourages individuals to practice the skills required to play sports such as hand-eye coordination, proprioception, and motor control.

A bonus is that some Wii Sports games can be played either seated or standing. So, if you are working on improving your balance, playing a game standing with a caregiver or therapist to supervise can be extra challenging.

Additionally, if the movements required in Wii Sports are no longer challenging, you can consider using light wrist weights while playing to continue building strength. It combines video gaming, music, and hand therapy together to encourage individuals to perform the high number of repetitions necessary to improve hand functions after stroke.

MusicGlove encourages users to practice tapping their fingertips together. Developing this hand function can help individuals perform everyday tasks such as twisting a doorknob or picking up an object. Stroke survivors who want to improve movement throughout their entire body can benefit from trying another video game-like neurorehab device called FitMi. It includes 40 exercises that target the hands, arms, core, and legs. FitMi challenges stroke patients to perform a certain number of rehabilitative exercises within a given timeframe.

Virtual reality VR video games can serve as a form of escapism for stroke patients by allowing them to immerse themselves in a world of limitless possibilities. By wearing a headset, users can interact with a variety of virtual simulations that mimic the real world. Saposnik while playing a friendly game of Wii tennis with his five-year-old daughter.

Saposnik switched his virtual tennis racket to his right hand. I realized that this could be something interesting in stroke rehab where people have lost those fine motor skills. Researchers recruited 22 patients within two months of having a stroke. Among those who were eligible, he randomized them to either use the Wii or to do recreational therapy, which involves playing cards, bingo or Jenga. Half the group received eight, minute Wii sessions over two weeks.

Both groups also received the same amount of therapy — both occupational and physical. The basic principles of rehabilitation involves repetition. Do not drink more than 1 to 2 alcoholic drinks a day. Exercise regularly: 30 minutes a day if you are not overweight; 60 — 90 minutes a day if you are overweight. Get medical insurance and have your blood pressure checked every 1 — 2 years, especially if high blood pressure runs in your family.

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