The Therapeutic Benefits of Sensory Rooms on Disability Populations Erin Moore & Danielle Saint Victor Temple University Therapeutic Recreation 1700 N Broad St Philadelphia PA 19121 The Therapeutic Benefits of Sensory Rooms on Disability Populations

What is a Sensory Room? “Sensory Room is an umbrella term used to categorize a broad variety of therapeutic spaces specifically designed and utilized to promote self- organization and positive change”

Sensory Modulation Rooms Sensory Integration Rooms Snoezelen Rooms Sensory Rooms Sensory Modulation Rooms Sensory Integration Rooms Snoezelen Rooms

Sensory Modulation Room Sensory modulation is a neurological function that allows us to organize sensory information for on-going periods of time The outcome of this type of room is modulation Small rooms in long term or acute care units converted into sensory supportive environments Primarily used for crisis de- escalation and prevention

Sensory Integration Room Sensory integration – the process by which we receive information through our senses, organize this information and use it to participate in everyday activates Therapy Interventions take place Used by professionals who are trained in sensory integration techniques Specific types of equipment designed for sensory integration therapy Sight Sound Smell Proprioception Vestibular

Snoezelen Rooms Components of both sensory integration and sensory modulation rooms Generally used for people who have moderate to profound cognitive impairment Example: Pervasive developmental disabilities or dementia Promote relaxation, social interaction and or to provide activities affording intense stimulation Inter-disciplinary staff with training or certification specific to kinds of equipment If the

Who can benefit from Sensory Rooms?

Mental Health Falls under the sensory modulation category Promotes stress management skills Used for crisis de-escalation and crisis prevention, patients learn a healthier way to regain self control A safe retreat More supportive than seclusion rooms that deprive the senses and invite disorientation

Dementia and Alzheimer's Often use Snoezelen Rooms Increases their awareness and understanding of their surroundings Calms aggressive behavior and improves mood Reduces fear and enhances trust in the people close to them People with Alzheimer's are often sensory deprived

Autism Falls under Sensory Integration Autism symptoms often include difficulty processing sensory information Used to achieve sensitivity goals Develop language/vocalization Promote social interactions Improves communication

Evidence Based Practice “Ninety-eight percent of the participants reported a positive change…It appears that the largest amount of change in perceived levels of stress is greatest among individuals reporting the highest levels of distress prior to use of the room.” (Champagne, 2003) “Interestingly, the number of restraints in this facility has decreased 40 percent during the year of this study.” (Champagne, 2003) “Observing an increase in patients self-confidence, emotional self- care and well-being.” (Bjorkdahl, 2016) “The patients used it both as a tool for when they’re already feeling upset and as a preventative strategy when they felt there was a risk of increased stress and anxiety.” (Bjorkdahl, 2016)

References Bjorkdahl, A., Perseius, K.-I., Samuelsson, M. and Lindberg, M. H. (2016), Sensory Rooms in psychiatric inpatient care: Staff experiences. Int J Mental Health Nurs, 25: 472-479. doi:10.1111/inm.12205 Champagne, T. (2003), The Effects of the use of the Sensory Room in Psychiatry. (2016). Sensory Rooms in Mental Health. Retrieved from http://www.ot- innovations.com/clinical-practice/sensory-modulation/sensory-rooms-in-mental-health- 3/ (2014, October 22). Multi-Sensory Environment research influences dementia care. Retrieved from http:// www.southampton.ac.uk/news/2014/10/22-multi-sensory- environment-research-influences-dementia-care.page Wheeland, A (2016). Sensory Integration: Changing the Brain through play. Retrieved from htt://www.autismspeaks.org/bloh/2013/12/03/sensory-integration-changing-brain- though-play (2016). Sensory Integration Therapy. Retrieved from http://www.autism.com/symptoms_sensory_king