Kids with autism can game their way to better balance, says study

Children with autism often find it hard to maintain a good posture and position. They may find some help by playing video games.

What is Autism?

Autism is a lifelong neuro-developmental disorder, characterised by limited social interaction, impaired verbal and non-verbal communication and restricted and repetitive behaviour.

A new study says that video games, which are action based and involve quick movements and graphics with ninja poses help autistic kids to improve their posture and daily activities.

Therefore, video game-based training could offer a way to help people with autism who have challenges with their balance.

The study looked at people with autism between 7 to 17 years to study the effects of balance training. The researchers used a gaming system with a Microsoft Kinect camera and a Nintendo Wii balance board connected to software.

Participants showed improvements in their in-game poses, but also their balance and posture outside the game environment. Previous studies have shown that playing video games also helps in rehabilitating stroke patients.