Isolated chronically ill children at home and hospitals are finding solace and camaraderie through video games.
In these challenging times, video games are proving to be a valuable source of comfort and connection for hospital patients, particularly for those facing isolation due to COVID-19 restrictions.
A young patient from Kansas, Maximilian, has been able to play Minecraft with his brother and sister, and even connect with another boy with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) on a Minecraft server, during his hospital visits. Maximilian, who visits the hospital about once a year for CF exacerbation treatment, finds solace in the games that come with him.
The restrictions on visitor access and patient activity have led to increased isolation for many patients. However, video games are helping bridge this gap. Maximilian's friend, Dara Riva's son, is another patient who has benefited from this. During a hospital visit, he and his friends won a game of Fortnite, bringing a moment of joy in a difficult situation.
The use of video games in hospitals is not a new concept. Organisations like Gamers Outreach, founded by Zach Wigal, a disability advocate and gamer, have been advocating for their inclusion in healthcare settings. Wigal, who also founded the organisation AbleGamers, states that video games are in higher demand than ever in hospitals due to the COVID-19 restrictions.
However, it's important to note that Virtual Reality (VR) may not be suitable for all procedures, as patients need to be aware of what's happening. J.J. Bouchard, a healthcare professional, cautions that while VR is a promising strategy for guiding children through minor procedures, it's crucial to ensure patients are well-informed.
VR is indeed proving to be beneficial in various ways. For instance, a burn victim was able to stand three times longer when using a video game kiosk during standing exercises, compared to previous sessions. Smileyscope, an Australia-based company, has even designed a diving simulator to help children cope with getting a shot using VR.
In London, a teenage boy at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children was able to undergo a port change while playing the VR game Beat Saber. This shows the potential of VR in making even complex procedures less daunting for patients.
Video games are also helping healthcare workers connect with patients undergoing uncomfortable, sometimes painful, procedures. They are being used to help manage pain, boredom, anxiety, sadness, and cognitive impairment. Games such as Mario Kart 7, Fruit Ninja, and Overcooked 2 are suggested for children with physical pain and symptoms of a chronic condition.
The Child's Play Foundation, in partnership with EEDAR and mental health researchers at the University of California San Diego, has created a guide recommending games to help with these issues. The guide is designed to help healthcare professionals choose games that are suitable for their patients.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Maximilian has been complying with stay-at-home orders and social isolation. However, video games have helped him stay connected with the outside world, providing a much-needed sense of normalcy.
In conclusion, video games are playing a crucial role in helping hospital patients cope with isolation, pain, and the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. They are providing a much-needed distraction, a sense of connection, and a tool for healthcare professionals to guide patients through the recovery process.
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