| As video games continue to penetrate into the | | | | comfortably in public. For example, a multiple sclerosis |
| mainstream they are no longer perceived as the niche | | | | patient recently wrote that she is able to use the Wii |
| pastime of children, fan boys, social misfits, and | | | | to have bowling tournaments with friends and family. |
| basement dwellers. The huge success of the Nintendo | | | | Due to her condition she has not been able to bowl for |
| Wii has introduced an audience to games that would | | | | years but the Wii let's her once again participate in one |
| never have considered picking up a controller a few | | | | of her favorite activities. She also feels that the |
| years ago. This can be attributed to the Wii's unique | | | | increased activity helped her pass her first balance |
| control interface which allows users to control on | | | | test during a recent doctor visit. |
| screen movement with a wireless remote or more | | | | Nursing homes across the country are implementing |
| recently Wii Fit, which allows players to participate in | | | | "Wii therapy". These are Wii tournaments that are |
| several games using a board that they stand on that | | | | interactive, fun, and effective in assisting residents with |
| detects their movements. | | | | social interaction, mobility, and exercise. Doctors and |
| An unexpected benefit of this sea change is the | | | | therapists say the Nintendo Wii is a huge hit with senior |
| positive impact this is having on the disabled and | | | | citizens by helping with motor skills and mental |
| seniors. The controls allow players to take part in | | | | acuteness. Again, bowling appears to be the biggest hit |
| activities that they are no longer able to perform | | | | with most nursing home residents. |