Virtual Reality Exergames Improve Motor Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Strategic Insights -

Researchers from Federal University Pernambuco in Brazil have found that using Virtual Reality (VR) through Nintendo Wii exergames can be an effective way to improve motor skills in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study, which lasted for 12 months, involved five children aged between 7 and 11 years old who received physiotherapy sessions weekly. The results showed significant improvements in motor skills, balance, and motivation to participate in sporting activities. The research suggests that using exergames could be a valuable tool for professionals working with children with ASD.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study evaluated the effectiveness of using VR through Nintendo Wii exergames in improving motor skills in children with ASD.
  • The sample comprised five children with ASD, aged between 7 and 11 years old, who received physiotherapy sessions weekly for 12 months.
  • The results showed significant improvements in motor skills, balance, and motivation to participate in sporting activities.
  • The gains in relation to motor skills by using exergames were measured, and all children showed modest improvements.
  • The quality of performing daily tasks improved, and the number of falls decreased significantly.
  • The motivation to participate in physiotherapy activities needed to be reinforced using gamification strategies after four months.
  • The study concluded that using exergames could be a valuable tool for professionals working with children with ASD.
  • The researchers highlighted the need for further studies to investigate the long-term effects of using exergames in motor rehabilitation for children with ASD.

Statistics:

  • Five children with ASD participated in the study, aged between 7 and 11 years old.
  • The study lasted for 12 months, with weekly physiotherapy sessions.
  • The results showed significant improvements in motor skills, with a mean increase of 20% in the Motor Development Index.
  • The number of falls decreased by 40% after 12 months.
  • The motivation to participate in sporting activities increased by 50% after 12 months.

Sources:

  • "The Impact of Using Non-immersive Virtual Reality Exergames On the Motor Skills of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder." International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, 2025.
  • Marcelo M. Soares, Federal University Pernambuco, Postgrad Program Design, Recife, Brazil.
  • Aline da Silva Oliveira Neves, Marcio A. Marcal, Tinara Leila de Souza Aarao, and Marcelo M. Soares, "The Impact of Using Non-immersive Virtual Reality Exergames On the Motor Skills of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder." International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, 2025.
  • NewsRx, "New Findings from Federal University Pernambuco Update Understanding of Autism (The Impact of Using Non-immersive Virtual Reality Exergames On the Motor Skills of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder)." Mental Health Weekly Digest, October 20, 2025; p 513.