In his physical therapy role, Wes Patton often leaned into technology to help motivate his patients. “People will try harder at a game than they will at traditional exercise,” he said. “And there’s research to back that up.”

Patton keeps that thought at the forefront of his work as emerging tech consultant for ARC Industries, a local disability-service provider that has enhanced its tech programming through grants from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and the Columbus Foundation.

He and ARC staff members use motion-sensor video games, virtual-reality headsets, adaptive controllers, and even an AI-powered humanoid robot to engage people in fun activities that also have physical and cognitive benefits. “It’s interesting stuff,” Patton said. “I’m so glad I’ve found my way onto this path.”

When assessments showed that many ARC adult day services participants were at risk of falls, Patton focused on tech options that encourage movement and quick reactions. Motion-sensor games can promote exercise by allowing people to virtually shoot baskets, hit a ball or run in place. “Anything we can do to get people out of their seats and moving is a good thing,” he said.

Pepper the robot can engage in conversation, answer questions, dance, sing, and she has an interactive touch screen. “Pepper can provide cognitive recognition activities, which fits into our aging curriculum,” said Amanda Smith, Chief Services Officer for ARC.

Tech activities also can take some pressure off busy staff members, Patton said. “When four or five people can play something at once, it gives staff time to do other things.”

Even people with very limited mobility are trying new activities. One young man was overjoyed to discover how much movement he could generate on screen. “The smile on his face?” Patton said. “I was so happy, too.”