VA ventures into gaming therapy
November 11, 2019
The Department of Veterans Affairs recently embraced the use of video games in therapies for disabled veterans suffering from a variety of physical, mental and emotional problems. The VA has partnered with Microsoft to develop specially made adaptive controllers which allow those with limited mobility a way to more comfortably play video games.
Gaming will now be an officially endorsed therapy tool for use in VA facilities. Its aim is to help veterans recover from injuries and socialize with others in an enjoyable way. Microsoft developed the adaptive controller to be used by people with a range of different physical issues. The tech company then donated 170 of the controllers, XBOX gaming systems, games and other accessories to 22 VA hospital facilities.
The benefits of gaming are many. The VA intends to use the systems to help veterans with physical issues to play video games comfortably again, as a form of pain management and to promote movement. There are emotional benefits too, as it allows veterans to connect and engage in friendly, fun competition.
The Veterans Health Administration will be studying how video game therapy affects patient outcomes. One area the group is particularly hopeful to see some positive changes is in suicide prevention efforts. A common complaint among recently discharged veterans is the lack of camaraderie in civilian life. Those feelings of isolation can exacerbate other mental health issues and can play a role in veteran suicides. Gaming can reintroduce some of the camaraderie that is suddenly missing and build meaningful friendships among VA patients.
The VA will even sponsor a video game competition sometime in 2020, and similar events are being hosted by other veterans activity and athletic groups, such as the National Veterans Sports Program.