From a recreational therapy perspective, online play supports graded return to social participation, cognitive retraining (memory, attention), and energy conservation (shorter, paced sessions).
Studies show digital gaming can decrease loneliness and support connection across ages; digital platforms also allow accessibility integrations like screen-readers and alternative input.
Use short, focused sessions and choose games that emphasise collaboration — Pandemic, cooperative legacy games, or narrative card games work well.
Digital versions on Steam or browser clients allow auto-management of complex rules (reducing cognitive load) and enable asynchronous play so participants can contribute at their own optimal times.
BoardGameGeek lists popular digital-adapted titles so you can match a teen’s interests to accessible options.
Design therapy outcomes: number of social replies per session, time on task, ability to complete a multi-step turn without prompts.
Include carers in setup and train them on basic platform navigation — reducing tech barriers increases the chance of consistent participation.
Where possible, blend online play with occasional face-to-face meetups (or local community referrals) to convert virtual connections into real-world social networks.
Ask us about how we can build a social circle in a lifelong hobby for you or the person in your care regardless of age or ability. If we can’t personally deliver a program for you, we will refer you to someone who can regardless of location in Australia.
email: gametherapynetwork@gmail.com