Sensory Integration Education

Each month we take a look at the latest SI research and research of topical interest - this month, we have a focus on older adults and sensory issues.

Mothers’ Perspectives: Daily Life When Your Child Has Sensory Differences

This new study investigated mothers' perspectives of the impact of their child’s sensory processing differences. Study participants indicated that their children's sensory differences impact daily occupations across all domains along with social relationships. They also indicated that these sensory difference adds extra demands to their parenting role from birth onwards.

Developmental, Sensory and Behavioral Outcomes among Infants and Toddlers with Prenatal Alcohol Exposure

This new study investigated sensory processing differences in 125 infants with prenatal alcohol exposure. The majority of infants in the study presented with under-responsiveness to sensory input and were slow to register sensory stimuli.

Efficacy of Sensory-based Static Balance Training on the Balance Ability, Aging Attitude, and Perceived Stress of Older Adults in the Community: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This new randomised controlled trial (RCT) investigated the efficacy of sensory-based static balance training for improving balance in older adults. The researchers found that older adults in the intervention group demonstrated a significant improvement in static balance ability (P < 0.001).

Audio-visual Multisensory Integration and Haptic Perception Are Altered in Adults with Developmental Coordination Disorder

This new study investigated sensory processing and spatiotemporal integration in adults with DCD compared to neurotypical (NT) adults. The researchers found that the DCD group of adults presented with impaired haptic and audio-visual multisensory integration when compared to the NT group.

Sensory Processing Assessment and Feedback in the Treatment of Complex Developmental Trauma

This new exploratory study investigated the impact of assessments and recommendations for sensory processing differences that impact everyday functioning for children affected by abuse. The researchers found that children in the study who received assessments and input to address sensory processing differences in addition to usual care had less difficulty managing their emotional distress, caring for themselves, and relating to peers.

Enablers and Barriers to Hearing Aid Use in People Living With Dementia

This new qualitative study investigated factors influencing hearing aid use in individuals with dementia. The researchers found that resources around the maintenance of hearing aids played a significant role. For example, 'dementia-friendly features that support use, such as a clear battery-warning alert and visual prompts to aid differentiation between left and right aids' were identified as an enabler.

When the Central Integrator Disintegrates: A Review of the Role of the Thalamus in Cognition and Dementia

This recent study investigated the underlying neuroscience in relation to cognition and dementia. The researchers found that pathology of the thalamus might play a role in widespread brain network dysfunction, which contributes to cognitive and behavioural symptoms in Alzheimer's Disease.

Are Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia Related to Sensory Processing?

This study investigated sensory processing differences in individuals with Alzheimer's Disease (AD). The researchers found that 65% of the study participants had difficulty in recognising and perceiving the sensory stimulus they received from the environment and their own bodies in terms of recording sensory information. Furthermore, 48.3% of participants presented with higher levels of sensory seeking behaviour.

“I'm Trying to Reach Out, I'm Trying to Find My People”: A Mixed-Methods Investigation of the Link Between Sensory Differences, Loneliness, and Mental Health in Autistic and Nonautistic Adults

This recent study investigated sensory processing differences, loneliness and mental health in Autistic and Nonautistic Adults. The researchers found that over and under responsiveness to sensory input showed a positive association with loneliness in both groups of participants.

ADHD in Older Adults – a Scoping Review

This new scoping review investigated the impact of  ADHD on older adults. The researchers found that there was a high prevalence of mental health difficulties such as depression and anxiety, and challenges with relationships and social isolation amongst older adults with ADHD. However positive aspects were also found in some studies e.g. many older adults with ADHD were engaged in a range of activities that kept them physically and mentally active.

Sensory Approaches for Adults with Severe or Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities: A Systematic Literature Review

This recent systematic review investigated sensory-based intervention approaches for adults with profound and multiple learning disabilities. The researcher found evidence to suggest that for some individuals with profound and multiple learning disabilities, a sensory-based intervention can contribute to reductions in behaviour that challenges, reduced signs of stress and agitation and increased engagement in activities.

Characteristics of Adults With Sensory Differences: An Exploratory Study Using the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness, Version 2

This new study explored interoception in adults with sensory differences. The study used the Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness version 2 (MAIA-2) to collect data on interoception. One of the associations that was found in the study population, was the correlation between reduced interoceptive functions and difficulty with emotional awareness and emotional regulation.

Supporting the Wellbeing and Engagement of Occupational Therapy Students through Sensory Modulation: A Pilot Study

This new pilot study investigated the potential for sensory modulation strategies as an approach to support student well-being and engagement. The researchers found that sensory modulation approaches may be helpful in facilitating increased coping strategies and improved self-regulation for students.

“A Perfect Storm”: Autistic Experiences of Menopause and Midlife

This new study investigated how autistic individuals experience menopause. Many participants indicated that they felt an increase in autistic burnout and struggled with sensory sensitivities during this period.