Wii Sports

…building the capacity of the community through effective volunteer participation.

This project provides a platform for aged care residents and rehabilitation patients with varying levels of physical ability to safely participate in a range of competitive sports – but also provides another chance to mix and socialise with younger generations.

Kelaston Hostel was the first many aged care and rehabilitation facilities across Australia to receive a Nintendo Wii Sports console and games as part of their intergenerational volunteering program.

This is a great example of how simple ideas can make a world of difference when volunteers come together to make something happen.

• 'United for a Wii spot of fun' The Australian Senior
• 'Computer games a buzz for young and old' The Courier (26 December 2007)
• 'A Wii spot of fun' Australian Ageing Agenda (March/April 2008, pg 28-31, web site)
• 'Move it or lose it' Mount Barker Courier (25 June 2008)
• 'Games for young at heart' Wyndham Leader (5 August 2008)
• 'Never too old for virtual tennis' The Courier Mail (1 September 2008)
• ‘Wee coffee fix for seniors from bb’s’ Gold Coast Bulletin (8 September 2008)
• 'Residents test Wii' Albert & Logan News (24 September 2008)
• ‘Wii gift for retirement community’ Daily News (25 September 2008)
• 'Elderly compete for gold in virtual sports' Gold Coast Tweed Seniors (October 2008)
• ‘Virtual sports a new form of fun’ Northside Chronicle (26 November 2008)
• 'Wii aids patients’ Wynnum Herald (17 December 2008)
• ‘Seniors getting fit with virtual games’ Redcliffe & Bayside Herald (31 December 2008)

If you’re an aged care facility or organisation working with young people interested in participating in the project, send us an email project-team@volqld.org.au or call the Wii Sports team on 3002 7600.