Taking the gaming route towards recovery

DECATUR -- A new therapy system is helping patients at Manor Care Health Services.  It was once only available to professional athletes, but now, patients are getting in the game.  WCIA-3's Jillian Deam found out--it's not just helping patients--they're also having fun.

Raymond Reed is recovering after an injury.

"I fell again, now I'm back."

He's back at Heartland Health Care Center and on the mend.

"Had to find someone to get me help."

But this time, Raymond says therapy seems like less work.

He's having a virtual picnic using the "Omni VR" system.

It allows people like Raymond to play games, while doing their physical therapy. 

"Do you think it makes a difference to have this?"

"Yes it does."

And his therapist thinks it's making a difference too.

"I can see them progress from the sitting exercises all the way up to where Raymond's at right now, and that's standing and walking," Physical Therapist Assistant Aaron Kirby said.

"We've been able to apply it to all facets of patient care."

"They don't notice they're working, it's a game, and as opposed to someone doing 20 reps, now they could do 100."
"They're breathing and working--it really improves the experience," Kirby said.   

This system is similar to something like an Xbox, but with the geriatric population in mind, it picks up more subtle movements.  However, that doesn't mean you can't compete while playing.

Raymond challenged me to an interactive bingo game.

And, I have to admit, Raymond won.

But he's winning more than just games on this system.

He's won back mobility and a desire to keep moving.

"It's a good thing," Raymond said.