Comparing Energy Expenditure in Adolescents With and Without Autism While Playing Nintendo^® Wii^™ Games

Abstract

We suggest videogame systems, such as the Nintendo Wii, may be viable alternative for individuals with ASD to increase their daily physical activity and help alleviate the growing rates of obesity.

Active Video Games and Health Indicators in Children and Youth: A Systematic Review

“…BOT-2 Bruininks–Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency-Second Edition; VMI, Developmental Test of Visual Motor Integration; TSIF, Test of Sensory Integration Function [58].eIncludes 4 intervention studies [59], [60], [63], [64], and 3 case studies [61], [62], [65].fCase study of 1 participant diagnosed with Down Syndrome. Recruitment procedures were explained but difficult to generalize findings [59]; Inclusion was based on “readiness to participate” assessment by occupational therapist [60]; case study of 1 participant diagnosed with spastic diplegic cerebral palsy [63]; no information on recruitment, participant characteristics or group assignment given [61]; no information on recruitment, participant characteristics or group assignment given [62].…”

“…Only data from case (i.e. autism group) is presented here [64].hChange in BOT-2 composite score after 8 week intervention for manual and body coordination respectively. Both changes exceed the minimum detectable change that would be statistically significant when comparing different samples and the minimum important difference that represents a clinically significant difference [59].…”

“…kPercent time spent in MVPA (during a 30 minute exercise bout) while walking, running, playing DDR, playing Wii Fit and playing Wii Sport respectively [64].…”

Virtual Reality and Serious Games in Neurorehabilitation of Children and Adults: Prevention, Plasticity, and Participation

“…Similar findings were reported for children with autism. 25 The length of time spent at a higher intensity of physical activity could be increased with use of VR and SG.…”

“…Some studies focused on sensory impairments including visual spatial training 37 and sensory attention for balance, 38 and some focused on intensity of exercise for improving fitness. 19–25 Children with CP have been the most common participants, 20–24,36,37,39–72,23,73–79 however there are several studies with children with Down syndrome, 80,81 developmental coordination disorder, 82,83 , autistic spectrum disorder, 25 muscular dystrophy, 46,51 and spina bifida. 19 Studies are underway for children with acquired brain injury.…”