Wheeeeeeeeee!!! for Wii: Seniors take to the game
In senior centers and nursing homes across the country, seniors are taking up Wii --the interative Nintendo video game. They are hosting bowling parties -- the most popular use of the Wii, and even celebrating the world szeries with a home-run derby.Whereas heavy real bowling balls kept many away from the sport -- as did their ability to get to the lanes -- Wii bowling offers a light "ball" and a way to exercise where they live and play. And exercise is great for both physical and mental health.
"It has energized this community beyond anything you can imagine," said Shirley Powell, 80, whose husband heads the residents association at Southampton Estates, near Philadelphia, according to a story in the Philadelphia Inquirer.
"A lot of times, people come in here under protest," Powell explained. "Their children want them to be here. They can't live alone. And they sort of surrender to life.
"This game has brought people out," she added. "They come early and sign up so they have a good spot in the roster. It's a sense of independence. They can come and bowl. It's exciting for them. Some people think because you're 80 or 85 that you can't do anything anymore. And that is so untrue. So untrue."
Wii was the second-best-selling video-game console in America in 2007, according to a Nintendo spokesman, with nearly 6.3 million systems sold. Nintendo says 24 percent of Wii players are 50 or older.
It's also a terrific way for all the generations to play together -- and get to know one another.
Teens, especially those who don't usually visit nursing homes, can find a comfort level in visiting now that they have a common interest with so many residents.
posted by Twilight scribe @ 1:44 PM
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