The effects of Nintendo Wii Fit training on gait speed, balance, functional mobility and depression in one person with Parkinson’s disease

A 69 year old male with idiopathic Parkinson’s disease participated in a 60-minute, bi-weekly training program using the Nintendo Wii fit gaming system. Pre-test/post-test assessments included: 1) The Timed up and go (TUG), 2) The Berg Balance scale (BBS), 3) Self selected gait speed, 4) Fall history, and 5) Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). After 8 weeks, the subject’s BBS score increased from 31 to 42 (35% improvement), the TUG decreased from 36.5 seconds to 24.1 seconds (34% improvement), gait speed increased from .26 m/s to .37 m/s (42% improvement) and GDS scores remained unchanged. The Nintendo Wii Fit may be a viable alternative to independent exercise programs for people diagnosed with idiopathic PD.