Search

This study aims to analyze the contributions of game therapy for cognitive skills of an adolescent with cerebral palsy. This research is based on a case study method, in which the software Desenvolve was used to compare the participant’s cognitive skills before and after 10 game therapy sessions using five minigames from the videogame Big Brain Academy: Wii Degree. We found a percentage increase in the participant’s scores regarding 10 out of 19 cognitive skills that had been assessed. Five of these skills had been directly stimulated through the intervention. Regarding the total score, we found a percentage increase from 73.69% to 90.89%. Therefore, the study subject showed improvement in cognitive skills after the game therapy sessions. In addition, the subject became more engaged and motivated during the treatment period and achieved a better performance in the videogame, which is considered part of his daily life and a meaningful activity to him.

Objective: In this study, it was analyzed the use of the videogame console Nintendo Wii™ as a motor (re) habilitation tool for individuals with Cerebral Palsy. Method: This is a field study with an exploratory and quantitative nature, in which is presented a case study. The participant’s motor skills were assessed and reassessed using the standardized protocol GMFM-88 (Gross Motor Function Measure - 88). It were performed 10 game therapy sessions using the videogame “Aladdin Magic Racer” through February and March 2013. Results: The participant achieved a percentage increase of 10.06% in the total score of GMFM in the reassessment compared to the one achieved in the initial assessment. Thus, the data analysis showed that the participant’s motor performance changed after the intervention using the Nintendo Wii™. Conclusion: Game therapy might be used as a motor (re)habilitation method for individuals with Cerebral Palsy, as well as Nintendo Wii™ might be a component of a (re)habilitation program for this population, focusing on gross motor function.