Sensory dysfunction also commonly known as Sensory processing disorder (SPD) is a condition that affects the means by which brain processes sensory information. Sensory information includes things that we see, hear, smell, taste, and touch. SPD can affect all our senses, or just any one of it. SPD mostly means than an individual is overly sensitive to stimuli to which other people are not.
Having certain sensitivities to specific types of sensory input can result in challenges in everyday situations like school, work or community settings. This can be extremely physically and emotionally draining and can leave the person feeling drained out and exhausted to do other important tasks.
Some of the sensitivity issues presented by autistics are as follows :
Moving around excessively, increased talking, repetitive and stereotypical behaviors, covering ears, poor awareness of one’s needs like hunger/thirst/need to use toilet, difficulty with sleeping and having feeding issues, having meltdowns and tantrums.
Understanding the primary issues faced by an individual with sensory concerns and accommodating these issues can ease discomfort and increase opportunities for autistic people to learn, socialize, communicate and participate in the community. Accommodations mean modifying the environment, using tools and strategies, or creating new habits or routines that will help to ease the adjustment to surroundings. Since sensory needs depend on the environment, accommodations may need to be adapted for each setting.
Some specific examples of tackling the issues are as follows :
Visual supports, using fidget toys, chewies or other sensory tools, providing safe, open spaces, taking movement breaks throughout the day, eating foods with strong flavors and mixed textures, using Weighted blankets, lap boards and resistance clothing that provides deep pressure.
Using light dimmers, sunglasses or hat under fluorescent lights, wearing ear plugs or headphones in noisy environments, working in spaces with a closed door to avoid distractions, avoiding strong scented products, choosing foods that have milder textures/ tastes, wearing soft and comfortable clothing, Adjusting situations to avoid crowds. Participating in self-advocacy and also being a part of support group
Also read : https://jewelautismcentre.com/jewel_blog/sensory-integration-dysfunction/
