Can’t Find a Wii When You Need One?

Maybe all the Wii’s have been diverted to your local physical therapy department. Those over 50 without grandchildren may not know that Wii is a video game that requires the player to wear a glove-like remote transmitter, so that player’s movements are translated realistically to the video screen; you can play tennis, ping-pong, or any number of action games. Reuters reported earlier this month that Ohio State University Medical Center 's Rehabilitation Department is has been using a Nintendo Wii to help a 51-year-old stroke victim to regain use of the affected half or his body. The idea came from a Canadian physical therapist, who heard of the success of the Wii at a rehab hospital in Alberta, Canada. They have been using the Wii for about 4 months in stroke, spinal cord and traumatic brain injury victims.

The Ohio therapists use the Wii for about 30 minutes’ ‘reward’ at the end of a tough physical therapy session, three times a week. It can help patients build balance, coordination, endurance and upper and lower body strength.

What is Wii? It’s not easy to explain, but if you ask your grandchild you’ll learn quickly enough. Right now it’s tough to get a Wii – apparently it’s a really hot Christmas gift, and stores are offering rainchecks. But Nintendo conveniently offers a store locator where you can try an actual demo!

Commercial break:  A Wii may be difficult to locate, but old friends and family members don't have to be.  With the development of online people search engines, you can re-connect with anyone from your past or conduct background checks on potential new employees.