TAMC Neuro Rehab patients benefit from technology
PRESQUE ISLE — For many, playing Wii is a pastime, but for patients taking advantage of neuro rehabilitation services at The Aroostook Medical Center, use of the popular gaming technology has become an important and enjoyable part of their recovery.
As TAMC’s Neuro Rehab department marks National Brain Injury Awareness Month, staff is celebrating the success of the one-year anniversary of Wii being added to their comprehensive therapy plan. This technology has fast become a key asset in helping those who suffer from an acquired brain injury.
“Our therapists use the Wii with pretty much all of the patients they see,” said Renee Guerrette, program lead/case manager for TAMC’s Neuro Rehabilitation. “It is a key tool to help with everything from regaining balance and strength to helping patients re-learn how to initiate movement and cognitive activity.”
Photo courtesy of The Aroostook Medical Center
MICHAELA ST. ONGE, left, occupational therapist at TAMC, assists Jerome Churchill of Wade in using the Wii during his recent therapy session. Also working with Churchill is Michelle Slike, physical therapist.
The introduction of the technology was made possible by the generosity of TAMC employees. A year ago in March — the month set aside to bring attention to brain injury and recovery — staff at TAMC sites throughout The County donated money to dress casual for a day and support their own.
Through the gift, neuro rehab staff purchased the Wii console, a number of games, and other devices that connect to the unit to enhance the user experience. One add-on obtained by TAMC is a balance board used by patients to work on measuring their weight distribution to help in shifting from left to right to regain balance.
“Balance and movement issues are common amongst people with brain injuries. We use the balance board with many of the sports games and we use Wii Dance games to encourage patients to initiate movement and to move their bodies methodically,” said Guerrette. “Rehab is no longer about just using dumbbells and theraband. We are excited about finding new, exciting and yes — fun — ways to help those with brain injuries recover.”
One of the great benefits Guerrette and her staff have seen over the last year is the growing number of patients who “get hooked” on Wii and end up purchasing a game console for use at home.
“It has really extended the therapy we do on-site to the home. We’ve seen patients more motivated and their approach to therapy is generally more positive. They enjoy using the Wii for therapy sessions here at the hospital and at home,” she said.
It’s success stories like TAMC’s use of the Wii that officials with the Brain Injury Association of America are looking to highlight during the current month. TAMC is a partner organization with the Brain Injury Information Network of Maine and is working collaboratively with the group to share information, provide education, and promote promising practices that will benefit individuals with brain injuries and their families.
A brain injury can happen anytime, anywhere, and to anyone. In fact, 1.7 million Americans sustain a brain injury each year.
TAMC Neuro Rehab is designed to help restore the highest possible level of cognitive, emotional, behavioral and physical function for patients calling upon a comprehensive spectrum of rehabilitation services. A variety of therapies focus on helping patients gain physical, occupational, cognitive, emotional and social skills that promote successful community re-entry, vocational development and personal independence.
For more information on TAMC Neuro Rehab, contact Guerrette at 207-768-4735 or by e-mail at rguerrette@tamc.org.
