Gaming & Rehab Taken To The Next Level
Over the last couple of years modern gaming systems, like the Nintendo Wii, have proven to have uses other than just filling up teenagers free time after school. For instance, the systems have been used in rehab facilities nationwide to help patients progress with therapy.
Rehab professionals first used basic games provided by the systems to engage patients in therapy, but now they are taking the next step. They are developing programs specifically for their patients. For instance, Red Hill Studios, in partnership with the UCSF School of Nursing, has created physical therapy games specifically geared to aide people with Parkinson’s.
“These games demonstrate the value of combining innovative health game designers with a top-flight clinical team,” said Bob Hone, creative director of Red Hill Studios. “Creating games that are both fun to play and provide concrete medical benefits takes a special kind of team. We are much more than the sum of our parts.”
Clinical trials of the PT games were conducted to demonstrate their efficacy in improving patients’ gait and balance; final results will be released in early August.
