A recent study has shown that the Nintendo Wii is an effective tool for helping stroke victims recover function in their limbs. The trick is that playing the Wii is good times, which means the patient continues using it well after they’ve been released from the hospital. The motion controls on the Wii force the patient to use their limbs and fingers, prompting a certain degree of recovery. The most exciting thing about this new therapy is that it can help people who had their strokes a long time ago. Previous therapies were only effective for recent patients. Science Alert has the story.
Once again, video games show they can do real work which improves lives. It also shows the power of fun. Your average physical therapy session, not very fun. Your average Wii game, fun. Guess which one people will spend more time and effort doing?