Campbellford Memorial Hospital is incorporating interactive gaming technology into patient rehabilitation, turning recovery into an engaging, play based experience.
Through its Restorative Care Program, CMH is using tools such as the Nintendo Wii and the Tovertafel interactive gaming system to help patients improve mobility, strength and cognitive function. Patients participate in activities like virtual bowling and tennis, working on balance, coordination, range of motion and endurance while staying motivated through gameplay.
The Tovertafel system projects colourful, responsive light games onto a table surface, allowing patients to reach, swipe and interact with images that respond instantly to touch and movement. The technology is designed specifically for older adults and individuals with cognitive challenges, encouraging both physical and mental engagement.
Caitlyn Payne, Recreation Therapist at CMH, says when therapy feels like play, patients are more likely to participate actively in their recovery. She notes that recreation therapy supports not only physical improvement, but also confidence, connection and dignity.
The Restorative Care team works with acute care patients who need focused therapy to rebuild strength and independence before returning home. Hospital officials say incorporating meaningful recreation into rehabilitation can support smoother transitions and potentially shorter hospital stays.
CMH says its approach reflects a broader commitment to innovative, patient centred care, where clinical goals are paired with moments of enjoyment and human connection throughout the recovery process.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)