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Using Nintendo Wii for stroke rehabilitation
The Benefits of Playing Video Games
Isabela Granic, Adam Lobel, and Rutger C. M. E. Engels
Radboud University Nijmegen
Reading skill development
Video games actively engage the player in a range of cognitive tasks. Most will feature text as a way to explain the rules of the game or introduce new features. Some video games are more ‘wordy’ than others and if you find the right game for your child it may really improve his or her reading skills. They can be a great alternative or addition to books.
Hand-EyeCoordination skills
Video games require hand skills to execute the desired task to play the game, using fine and gross motor skills with visual perception. Play a game that requires precision timing, a sensitive touch and detail and you will find your hand-eye skill increases. Playing video games may even help surgeons perfect their skill in the operating room.
Fitness
The Wii and Kinect are consoles that utilise motion controllers which detect the movements of the players. Games are played by actively moving your body in a particular way. Manysports games are very compatible with this system and it’s a lot of fun for the whole family to play these simulation sports games. Playing such games have also been successful in introducing activity and sports to people who are otherwise not inclined to be active. Video games by themselves are usually not beneficial for one’s fitness and activity levels, but if done in the right way, these games can be really good for you. Just another example of skills development whilst playing video games.
