Agnesian HealthCare Provides Exergaming To Arc Of FDL

Residents at The Arc Fond du Lac are already seeing benefits in just a short amount of time from new Wii gaming systems thanks to a generous donation from Agnesian HealthCare.

An Agnesian HealthCare contribution has provided Wii gaming systems and games for each of The Arc Fond du Lac’s nine adult family homes. 

Exergaming is video game play that incorporates exercise. Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) are at greater risk of developing hypertension, diabetes, heart disease, respiratory infections, high cholesterol, osteoporosis and obesity due in part to lack of moderate physical activity. Winter weather in Wisconsin adds another challenge to increasing exercise within this population. 

Studies on the use of Wii gaming technology among those with Down syndrome have shown improved sensorimotor functioning, sometimes at an even greater level than standard occupational therapy. 

“Since these systems were installed in March, participating residents have experienced weight loss, increased social interaction, reduced stress and improved mood,” according to Julie Schwartz, RN, training coordinator with The Arc Fond du Lac. “The donation of these gaming systems has also allowed The Arc FDL staff and residents the opportunity to engage with and help one other achieve. 

We greatly thank Agnesian HealthCare for once again showing their commitment to improved health and welfare for all in this community,” Schwartz adds.

For Agnesian HealthCare, the donation reflects its ongoing efforts to partner with businesses and organizations in the region to bring support projects that help to enhance the overall health and well-being of residents.

“It’s wonderful to hear that residents with The Arc Fond du Lac are already experiencing positive results from an activity that promotes fun while bringing with it great health advantages,” says Holly Brenner, Agnesian HealthCare vice president of Marketing & Strategic Development. “We appreciate being able to work collaboratively with community partners to help individuals live healthier lives and stay actively engaged all to the ultimate benefit of those we serve.”

To learn more, call The Arc Fond du Lac at (920) 923-3810.

Photo caption: Residents at The Arc Fond du Lac are already seeing benefits in just a short amount of time from new Wii gaming systems thanks to a generous donation from Agnesian HealthCare. Holly Brenner (left), Agnesian HealthCare vice president of Strategic Development & Marketing, joins Julie Schwartz (right), RN, training coordinator with The Arc Fond du Lac, and residents Jean Wiesner and Tom Schmitz.