The Effectiveness Of Electronic Multi-Sensory Devices vs. Classic Vision Therapy Procedures.

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of utilizing
multisensory gaming devices such as the Nintendo Wii™ for therapy of oculomotor dysfunctions, in comparison to the effectiveness of traditional Wayne Saccadic Fixator
(WSF) and rotator vision therapy procedures. Methods: Oculomotor skills of participating Ferris State University Honors students were
assessed via a screening process involving the Developmental Eye Movement (OEM) test
and the Visagraph Readalyzer. Thirty-eight subjects met the requirements for normal
oculomotor skills and were randomly divided into two equal groups: control and experimental. The control group underwent four weeks of vision therapy using traditional WSF and rotator procedures, while the experimental group conducted four weeks of vision therapy using Nintendo Wii Sports™ and Guitar Hero™ procedures. At the conclusion of vision therapy, the oculomotor skills of each subject were reassessed with the OEM and Visagraph tests.
Results: Statistical analysis of participants' oculomotor skills following vision therapy with Nintendo Wii™ revealed results no different than that of traditional methods. Additionally, both groups showed statistically significant improvements in these skills. Conclusions: Multisensory gaming devices such as the Nintendo Wii™ are viable options
for vision therapy of oculomotor skills in place of or in conjunction with traditional oculomotor vision therapy devices.