Today, the world recognizes National Video Games Day! Traditionally, video games are exalted for their entertainment value. However, here at Rehab and Beyond, we’re celebrating the technological innovation that video games provide to stroke and brain injury survivors. These advancements offer stroke and brain injury survivors fun, interactive, and effective rehabilitation alternatives that can be completed in the comfort of one’s own home.

Stroke is the leading cause of adult disability in the U.S., causing both physical and cognitive impairments. Common traumatic brain injuries like strokes can affect motor function, communication, concentration, and spatial awareness. In addition to challenges related to executive function, a survivor may experience difficulty in the areas of mental flexibility, emotional control, organization, and planning. Strokes can also trigger mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

In spite of the tough road to recovery that many survivors face, experts in the field report that video game therapy offers a new world of hope. Evidence suggests that survivors who participate in video game therapy are more likely to remain committed to their rehabilitation program. Ultimately, video game therapy is a great complement to traditional therapies.

Watch these videos to see how experts use video games to aid in stroke and brain injury recovery!

DISCLAIMER:

Rehab and Beyond is excited about the opportunities that exists in the world of gaming for stroke and brain injury survivors. However, in addition to rehabilitation alternatives like video game therapy, we also recommend incorporating traditional methods like physical, cognitive, speech and occupational therapies into your recovery regimen. The combination of both new and traditional will yield your greatest results. Rehab and Beyond also advises that you consult with your doctor or therapist before using any interactive at home gaming system/program. 

Video Games You Can Play At Home

Nintendo Wii

As shown in the previous video, The Nintendo Wii gaming system offers a variety of interactive gaming options, including bowling, tennis, baseball, golf, and boxing.

Brain Age

 

Available on the Nintendo DS, Brain Age allows you to quickly train your brain using just a couple minutes each day. Activities include math,counting, drawing, literature, and Sudoku. 

Pogo Games

Pogo.com is a free online gaming website that offers over 100 casual games from brands like Hasbro and PopCap Games. It offers a variety of card and board games like First Class Solitaire and Monopoly. Pogo.com also includes puzzles, sports and word games like Scrabble.

Xbox Adaptive Controller

Watch this video to see how the Xbox Adaptive Controller encourages accessibility for everyone!

Rehab and Beyond is a 501(c)(3) charitable non-profit organization, founded in Atlanta, GA dedicated to providing free rehabilitative continuum care to stroke and brain injury survivors.

Click this link and help Rehab and Beyond provide resources and therapy to stroke and brain injury survivors in need!