A rehabilitation center in Henderson, NV is introducing a touch of the Las Vegas Strip’s glamour to its patients. HealthSouth Las Vegas employs video poker as a means of motivation and rehabilitation.
Video poker machines help build stamina
Video poker is typically viewed as a sedentary activity by most people. However, for patients in the rehab center, merely standing and playing video poker can serve as a crucial form of physical therapy.
“Sandy McGinnis, an occupational therapist at the hospital, told the Las Vegas Sun that they sometimes engage patients in playing video poker machines while standing as a way to improve their standing tolerance. They also incorporate wrist weights into the activity, which can be quite exhausting after a 15-minute session,”
Angela Ingerson, a patient at the facility, uses the video poker machine as part of her therapeutic routine. She shared with KTNV News, “I had to sit back down after standing for a short while during my first session due to fatigue.”
Ingerson is presently recuperating from pneumonia and striving to regain his good health.
The hospital’s Chief Executive Officer bought two machines at a cost of $1 each, and the patients are already receiving substantial benefit from his investment. The video poker machine adds an element of fun to the physical therapy process. Ingerson emphasized how the diversion provided by the game helps her to focus less on the effort she is making.
Playing gambling machines can improve brain health
Playing video poker’s physical component is only one part of the therapy, according to HealthSouth staff. They also claim that gaming aids in mental sharpness.
“Improving executive-functioning skills is our main goal with the games,” said McGinnis. “We’re specifically targeting areas such as attention, mental flexibility, self-regulation and working memory.”
Alzheimer’s Disease researchers propose that playing strategy games such as poker could potentially lower the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia in later life. It’s important to note that traditional poker significantly differs from video poker. Nevertheless, this serves as another illustration of the potential health benefits associated with casino games.
“The prefrontal cortex is one area of the brain we know is activated by gambling,” explained Sarah Tempest, team leader at HealthSouth. She further elaborated that the frontal lobes of the brain are susceptible to damage from traumatic injuries, substance abuse, and strokes.
Casino games part of real world therapy strategy
The two recreational video poker machines are simply a representation of the more unorthodox therapies offered by HealthSouth. The hospital strives to incorporate various real-world aspects into the rehabilitation process. The facility also boasts a simulated mini grocery store.
Patients have the option to visit the store, thereby stimulating their brain by making purchasing decisions or creating lists of required items. This activity is particularly beneficial for patients in recovery from brain injuries, as it aids in enhancing recall and focus.
Patients also have the enjoyable options of playing skeeball and air hockey. Similar to video poker, these games serve as a distraction from the strenuous physical effort they are exerting. Instead, the patient’s attention is drawn to the entertaining and competitive aspects of the arcade games. According to experts, unless you are an athlete engaged in intense training, such diversions can be beneficial in enhancing your fitness level.
