Nintendo Wii as an intervention : improving the well-being of elderly in long-term care facilities.

Abstract

This study examined the impact of playing Nintendo Wii on the psychological, social and physical well-being of elders. Based on the unique features of Wii, we also explored the possible mediation effects that social interaction and physical activity that playing Wii had on psychological well-being. Finally, we studied how the benefits of playing Wii may be magnified under different playing conditions. A six week-long intervention was held in SASCO Senior Citizens’ Home, a long-term care facility in Singapore. 45 residents aged between 56 and 92 years old took part in the study. Participants were split into three experimental groups: (1) Multiplayer Wii group (2) Single-player Wii group and (3) control group, who played traditional group games. Game sessions took place three times a week, lasting one and a half hours each. Questionnaires were administered through face-to-face interviews before and after the intervention. Measures included social interaction, physical activity, senior centre belonging, loneliness, affect and self-esteem. Results showed that playing Wii had a positive impact on the overall well-being of the elderly. Mediation effects were found for psychological well-being variables like loneliness and belonging. The elder in the single-player Wii group exhibited more positive affect compared to those in the multiplayer group. Through this study, Wii was proven to have a positive contribution to the overall well-being of the elderly. Explanations and implications for future applications of Wii in interventions for the elderly are were discussed.