Physical Therapy is defined as therapy for the preservation, enhancement, or restoration of movement and physical function impaired or threatened by disease, injury, or disability. Cognitive Deficits, also called intellectual disability, is a condition beginning in childhood in which people show significant limitations in their ability to learn and function. Intellectual disabilities are divided into degrees of severity based on their level of impairment. These include mild, moderate, severe, or profound. About 5% of the population have cognitive deficits, and most of these individuals fall into the mild range deficit category. Even individuals with a mild cognitive deficit are at an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s or Dementia.
Exergaming can be very beneficial for people who have cognitive deficits. To get an understanding of the severity of their cognitive disability, individuals can be evaluated based on their cognitive skills, gross motor skills, fine motor skills, and social skills. Using interactive fitness to evaluate these skills has proven to be a terrific method. Exergame has proven to not only have physical benefits but cognitive ones as well. Things like the tWall, Makoto, and iDance are great for improving gross and fine motor skills. You can also improve social skills as multiple individuals can use the equipment at once. People with cognitive deficits are at a higher risk of behavioral issues, so Exergame rooms can be used as a safe space for them to have fun and stay active at the same time!
Why to use Exergame for Physical Therapy?
• Improve mobility and balance-After a serious injury or big surgery, it can be hard for patients to get back up on their feet. Exergame can help fine tune a patient’s motor skills.
• Prevent more injuries-a key aspect of physical therapy is assessing the weak area’s in the patient’s body and developing a plan to strengthen those vulnerable areas
• It can help maximize movement- physical therapists are able to identify, diagnose, and treat movement related issues. The benefit of physical therapy is it can help you live pain free.
The research doesn’t lie! It’s a proven fact that physical activity can immensely help people with cognitive deficits. Whether you’re a medical center, health club, or physical therapy clinic, exergaming can truly be valuable for the individuals you work with! Contact us today