Sensory Assessment
The Sensory Profile (Dunn, 2014) is a standardised assessment used to measure an individual’s response to sensory input and stimuli. At REM Healthcare, we use this tool to understand how each person interprets, regulates, and responds to different sensory information, which provides key insights into their behaviour, emotions, and social interactions.
How Sensory Profiles Help
Sensory profiles are invaluable tools for addressing challenges related to Sensory Processing Challenges, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and other developmental or neurological conditions. They help us identify how people regulate and respond to sensory input, which influences their behaviour, emotions, and social interactions. Understanding an individual’s sensory profile allows us to create environments, activities, and interventions that cater to their unique needs, promoting engagement, comfort, and participation in daily life.
Examples of Sensory Preferences and Interventions
Food Aversion in Children: Some children have a strong aversion to certain textures or tastes, such as crunchy foods. An occupational therapist may create a gradual desensitisation plan involving small, manageable exposures to different textures, helping the child become more comfortable with varied foods.
Noise Sensitivity in Teens: A teenager with noise sensitivity may find loud environments overwhelming. An occupational therapist might suggest wearing noise-cancelling headphones in public or creating a “quiet corner” at home where the teenager can retreat to reduce sensory overload.
Touch Sensitivity in Adults: An adult may find certain clothing textures irritating or overwhelming. An occupational therapist could recommend fabrics that are more comfortable and suggest environmental changes, like using weighted blankets, to provide soothing sensory input.
Occupational Therapists' Roles in Analysing and Completing Assessments:
Occupational therapists play a crucial role in the analysis and completion of sensory assessments. Here’s how:
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Expert Analysis:
Occupational therapists bring specialised knowledge and expertise to interpret sensory profile assessments. They analyse the data to understand an individual’s sensory strengths, challenges, and modulation patterns.
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Personalised Interventions
Based on the sensory profile, occupational therapists design personalised intervention plans. These plans may include sensory-based activities, environmental modifications, and strategies to address specific sensory needs and support optimal regulation.
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Colaboration with Individuals and Caregivers
Occupational therapists work collaboratively with individuals and their caregivers to gather information for the sensory profile. This collaborative approach ensures that the assessment captures a holistic picture, incorporating perspectives from those who know the individual best.
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Education and Support
Occupational therapists provide education and support to individuals and their families, helping them understand the implications of the sensory profile. They offer strategies for incorporating sensory-friendly practices into daily routines and environments.
Why Choose Us
At REM Healthcare, our experienced occupational therapists are dedicated to conducting thorough and insightful sensory profile assessments. We prioritise understanding the unique sensory needs of each individual, fostering an environment of support, empowerment, and inclusion. Contact us today to embark on a sensory journey that unlocks a world of personalised strategies for enhanced well-being and engagement in daily life.
