Seniors use Wii workout

By Mary Joseph, NEWS 9

Ken "Sugar" Smith and his grandson Blake spend a lot of time together going to sporting events, fishing and playing video games.

The 67-year-old isn't the typical video game player. He is one of an increasing number of metro seniors using video games as a way to stay active. Using Wii, seniors can create a character and then try their hands at bowling, golf, tennis and other sports.

Smith said he discovered his grandson's Nintendo Wii last December.

"He asked me to play and I think it was Christmas," Smith said. "It was fun."

Blake said he was surprised by his grandfather's video game skills.

"I never thought this would come out or he would want to play it," he said.

The Copper Lake Estates Senior Community  in Edmond, recently introduced the Wii.  Organizers said they hope other residents will catch Wii fever - just like Smith did.

I think it's a fun and manageable way to add physical activity into their lives because when they are having fun, you don't realize you are exercising," said Leah Marple with Copper Lake Estates.

For many seniors, this may be the first time they have played virtual sports, so Copper Lake Estates brings in some younger gammers to help teach them about Wii.

Copper Lake resident Ellie Reavis tried a bowling game on the Wii with the help of one of the tutors.

"I think I could probably do better, course I would like to have a real ball and really bowl," Reavis said. "I think I would do better with the real thing."