Abstract
A Wii game program was developed for adults in a skilled nursing facility. Posttest scores from the BBS and the SCS–R indicate that OTs can use the Wii program as an evidence-based intervention to improve balance and socialization among older adults.
Primary Author and Speaker: Sumair Rehman
Additional Authors and Speakers: Dr. Rae Ann Smith, Julie L. Watson
In skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) falls are the leading cause of hospitalization and death among older adults. In addition, older adults in SNFs feel isolated due to disrupted social interactions. Wii games encourage older adults to engage in exercise which may improve their physical and psychosocial outcomes. Physical, cultural, and social factors affect the performance, satisfaction, and well-being of an individual (Joanne et al., 2019). A socialization-based approach to treatment can reduce health disparities and improve overall health and quality of life (Smallfield & Molitor, 2018). However, there is little research regarding the clinical benefits of Wii in treating balance dysfunction. Furthermore, the existing research has not extensively investigated the social aspects of using Wii games in SNFs. This study aimed to develop a Wii game program to improve balance and socialization among older adults residing in SNFs. The Wii game program was incorporated twice per week for four weeks. A total of 12 long-term residents over 65 years of age participated in the study. The BBS and the SCS-R were used to determine the effects of the intervention. A two-tailed t-test revealed a statistically significant difference on pre-and post-test scores of the BBS (p =0.032) and the SCS-R (p=0.004). The Wii game program improved balance and social interaction, as is reflected by the improved BBS and SCS-R posttest scores. Playing Wii games allowed older adults to create relationships and bonds with people of different backgrounds which may improve their quality of life. OTs can use the Wii game program as an evidence-based intervention to improve socialization and balance among older adults in SNFs, improve their sense of well-being, and reduce fall risk and healthcare expenditures associated with falls. However, further research is needed for the clinical use of Wii games as a valid and reliable tool for balance and social intervention in SNFs.
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Smallfield, S., & Molitor, W. L. (2018). Occupational therapy interventions supporting social participation and leisure engagement for community-dwelling older adults: A systematic review. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 72(4), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2018.030627