The Pros and Cons of Video Games after a Traumatic Brain Injury
When you’ve suffered a traumatic brain injury, one of the things you expect is an increased sensitivity to light. For that reason, your doctor may recommend that you minimize your exposure to screens, such as television monitors, computers, tablets and smartphones. It may come as a surprise, then, that there are now video games that can help you along the path to recovery from a concussion or traumatic brain injury.
How Can Video Games Help with a TBI?
Researchers say that video games can enhance recovery from a traumatic brain injury in a number of different ways:
- Video games typically require the development and integration of problem-solving skills—To have any success and most enjoyment when playing a video game, you need to solve basic problems, but you also need to integrate those problem-solving skills into your cognitive process. Of course, much of that is through repetition, but that is one of the fundamental components of learning.
- Video games also demand that you commit certain things to memory—You need to remember how you made it through this level before, because there won’t typically be any instructions as to what to do next. In some situations, you’ll receive explicit instructions once, but must remember them for the rest of the game. This can be a powerful tool for improving concentration and memory.
- Video games require both simple and complex physical and mental coordination—You need to learn how to perform basic operations, but you’ll often be required to use your hands, eyes and even your ears together. In fact, there are video games available that were specifically designed to help re-develop coordination in concussion victims.
- Video games require that you pay attention—Maintaining your attention span can be initially challenging in the aftermath of a concussion or TBI. With a video game, you’ll typically be exposed to many sights and sounds, and will need to integrate them into the overall experience. Video games can help you relearn how to be proactive, rather than reactive.
- Video games can require a certain amount of endurance or stamina—Most video games are meant to be played for significant periods of time. With a video game, you can gradually develop the ability to be focused for longer periods of time.
- Video games are fun and can motivate you to do the things you need to do to get better
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.
