Researcher(s)
- Gracie Duch, , St. Mary's College of Maryland
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Anjana Bhat, Physical Therapy, Interdisciplinary Neuroscience, Biomechanics and Movement Science, University of Delaware
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder, commonly referred to as ASD, is a disorder that is associated with challenges such as social communication, motor, and cognitive/executive functioning skills. Yet, few youth with ASD receive physical therapies, and physical activity interventions to address such challenges. This study investigates how an exergaming program (exercise video games) specifically, a series of Nintendo Switch games including RingFit, Nintendo Sports, and Life Adventure activities can improve the executive motor, and cognitive functioning of youth with ASD. These exergames may spark more interest and be engaging to youth with ASD. Twenty-nine youth (ages 6-19, split up into Nintendo experimental and control groups) participated in an eight week protocol consisting of 16 sessions (2 sessions/week) of Nintendo Switch RingFit, Nintendo Sports, and Life Adventure activities. Our goal was to assess the effectiveness of the protocol by analyzing pre vs. post tests to analyze executive functioning, and cognitive improvements throughout the exergaming program. It is hypothesized that children with ASD will improve in executive motor function and cognition throughout the program, and find enjoyment in participating in this type of physical activity. It was found that the experimental group post assessments (game and standard tasks) showed significantly less cognitive decision making errors in exercise games. Nintendo Switch exergaming can be used by clinicians to promote coordination, motor and cognitive functioning in autistic youth. Nintendo switch interventions can provide a fun, engaging platform for autistic youth to participate in physical activity and to improve motor and cognitive skills.