San Bernardino County unveils Wii program for seniors

San Bernardino County is rolling out a new exercise and nutrition program for seniors that uses the Nintendo Wii to improve physical fitness.

Board of Supervisors Chairman Paul Biane, whose district stretches from Upland to Fontana, will make an appearance Tuesday at George M. Gibson Senior Center in Upland as seniors put their hand-eye coordination skills to the test.

On Wednesday, Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt, who represents the High Desert, kicked off the program at the Victorville Senior Center.

The Wii requires players to move their bodies to play games such as golf, tennis, bowling and boxing.

The county purchased 36 Wii systems using a state disease prevention grant and has been installing the games at senior centers throughout the county. The 36 systems along with 10 televisions, video games and controllers cost approximately $31,000.

"Playing Wii is a great way for seniors to stretch their muscles," Biane said in a statement. "It also helps them exercise their minds, and it gives them another reason to come out and visit their friends at the senior center."

The Department of Public Health (DPH) will also be introducing the "We Can" program at the Gibsion senior center. The six-week nutrition and exercise program aims to encourage seniors to eat healthy and exercise regularly.

In Fontana, the Dino Papavero Senior Center, Josephine Knopf Senior Center and the George White Senior Center will receive Wiis as will the Leisure Shores Senior Center in Crestline.
Senior centers in Phelan, Adelanto, Hesperia, Lucerne Valley, Barstow, Hinkley, Newberry Springs, Big River and Trona will also receive Wiis.