One of the most important goals that nursing home staff implement is keeping their residents physically active. While many have physical or mental handicaps, it is still possible for them to participate in many activities.
The Wii is able to used due to its interactive and yet simple nature interface, one which is easy to understand and is accessible to all – even those in wheelchairs. It should not be suprising that residents can become very competitive with each other, while having a good time and being mentally and socially active. Tournaments are not uncommon, and heated competition between residents logically ensues.
Tennis and bowling are two games that residents often enjoy. These games can bring back memories and skills from the real games they used to play in their youth, or bring new experiences to those who were never able to play them as a sport. Golf and Fishing are also very popular with the men, allowing them to work muscles and improve hand-eye coordination. They can interact positively with other residents as well as staff, helping everyone to feel more connected and have a common internet and sense of community.
It is likely that not even Nintendo foresaw what a wide range in age would find the Wii appealing. While the designers were hoping to make the game system more accessible to all, the degree to which this has come true is quite remarkable. Younger players are interested in newer, complex games and features that some of the older crowd, but can still benefit from playing fun games with their elder family members. This creates an atmosphere where everyone can be included, and harkens back to days when families played board games, instead of separating themselves between activities due to generational or skill level differences.
As the benefits that they games offer become increasingly apparent in the home and in businesses or care facilities, there is little doubt and more and more adult communities will be offering them. At $250 for a game console at $30-$60 per game, it is a very good investment that pays off in ways that is nearly unparalleled, allowing residents to be active and vibrant, and to merge interests with others of many ages. Furthermore, these facilities can access games online just as well as the general public, buying subscriptions to game download sites, thus becoming capable to download full version games.
As a final testament, physicians are currently encouraging use of the Wii for therapy. Mental functioning, as well as physical activity are extremely important for the elderly and handicapped. Resident with an interest and social purpose fair much better psychologically that do those who are listless and bored. It contributes to the quality of life, while enhancing the desire to life it. There are even some reports that this activity can extend life, as all of these factors contribute to mental well-being and longevity in the geriatric community.
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