Residents at Alexander Place show off their new Nintendo Wii. 
Video games the latest rage in long-term care
Monday March 10, 2008 -- Camille Jensen
Recent popularity using the Nintendo Wii at Alexander Place has staff encouraging other homes to consider video games when creating new programming for residents.

Introducing the Wii in December, Claire Collision activation co-ordinator, says it has really energized the residents.

“The engagement level is amazing,” says Collision. “It’s fantastic to see this generation take on something completely new to them.”

Bowling is a favourite game for the residents, and Collision says all ages have been actively playing the game.

The popularity of the game has also changed the mood in the activity room, which is now often crowded with residents cheering each other on.

Collision says watching residents thoroughly enjoy the game proves that seniors are more than capable of learning new trends.

The Nintendo Wii is also an interactive game, which can help get residents up and moving. 

The Waterdown long-term care home also has a number of “mind teaser” games which can help residents cognitive abilities.

The enormous benefits from the new entertainment system has Collision suggesting other homes look into the device.

“A lot of activity co-ordinators may think residents won’t be able to play the games,” says Collision. “But that simply isn’t true.”

Temiskaming Lodge has also been experimenting with Generation X toys, introducing an Xbox 360 and a Sirius radio for a resident confined to his bed.

Cynthia Plouffe, registered nurse at the Jarlette Health Services-owned Haileybury long-term care home, says due to a health condition one of their residents had become bedridden and was unable to join any of the regular activities.

“He was at the point where he was counting the specs on the ceiling tiles,” recalls Plouffe.

The home received an Xbox 360 for the resident after applying to the Jarlette Make a Wish Program. 

The Sirius radio music system was a gift for Christmas from the resident’s family.

Since the introduction of the gifts the staff are happy to report the new entertainment has restored the resident’s spirits. The staff has been bringing in new games for the resident and volunteers enjoy visiting and playing the games.

Plouffe says the success of the new game has the home considering bringing in more entertainment systems for residents who are non-ambulatory.

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