Nicole Verret

10/21/2015

LEI 4724

Wii Activities
Citation Source: Kenuk, S., Borders, R., Palmer, K., Nelson, R. (2015). Using the wii for
function improvements with brain injuries. Therapeutic Recreation Journal, 49(3): 261-264.
Equipment Needed: Wii, TV large enough for participants to see, including possible spectators,
Wii controllers with wrist straps, Wii games, room free of obstruction for participants who will
be standing or sitting.
Activity Description: Wii games in a group setting can be used to address cognition, hand eye
coordination, problem solving skills, physical mobility, and social skills. This activity can be
done with any age group, provided that they have mobility of their upper extremities such as
hands, wrists and forearms. Ambulation is not a requirement for this program. The facilitator and
participants may need to divide up into teams based on the number of participants as most Wii
games are limited to 2-4 players. This activity could take place in nearly any treatment setting
(i.e in the home, outpatient, community recreation center, inpatient mental health or medical
setting, day program, etc.). The game(s) should be selected by the facilitator based on what skill
the group is to focus on for that session. The Wii console offers a variety of games, especially in
Wii Play, Wii Sports and Balance, which do not require large time commitments but can be
played quickly or in longer, tournament style games, such as bowling.
Leadership Considerations: This activity requires the facilitator to be familiar with the game
console and games available, so that they can choose a game which will provide the most
benefits for the participants while working towards set goals. It also is important for the
facilitator to be familiar with the games so that they can work within the group dynamics to
develop team or individual games based on players available.
Adaptations: Using the Wii console has been researched as a viable intervention for individuals
in a rehabilitator setting; particularly those with brain injuries. Studies showed that was a
connection between playing Wii and physical, cognitive and psychosocial functioning. When
used with balance features or standing games there were also marked improvement with gait and
balance. This can be especially useful when individuals in rehabilitation settings can receive
copious amounts of physical and occupational therapy, which may not be enjoyable or
intrinsically motivating to participate.
With older adults, the use of the Wii could also be beneficial, as many of the same goals are set
for individuals in rehabilitation, such as improving physical health, balance, and coordination
which is essential in preventing recurrent injuries such as falls. This can also help to improve
social interactions, as many older adults tend to become isolated and can feel a lack of
connection to those around them, especially after transitioning into a long term care facility.