Our senses constantly feed the nervous system and brain information, which we then process and use to respond to our environment. This is known as sensory processing or sensory integration.
As we age, this sensory input is affected by factors such as reduced mobility, cognitive decline, and vision and hearing impairment. While this is a normal part of the aging process, it can significantly impact the well-being of seniors living with neurodegenerative conditions such as dementia.
A person living with symptoms of dementia is already facing challenges as they make sense of the world around them. This may include feelings of fear and isolation, confusion, and memory loss. Sensory stimulation is a neuro-affirmative approach that supports and enhances the lives of those living with dementia, while simultaneously considering their specific needs.
For more detailed information on dementia and how to get involved in supporting those living with this condition, check out Dementia Australia.
WHAT IS MULTI-SENSORY STIMULATION FOR DEMENTIA?
In basic terms, sensory stimulation refers to engaging one or more senses- vision, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. It supports cognitive, emotional, and neurological functioning so that people can continue to connect positively with their environment and others around them.
Multisensory stimulation may be achieved through:
- A specifically designed sensory room or sensory equipment.
- Group activities that encourage participation and communication.
- Introducing sensory experiences to everyday routines.
HOW DOES SENSORY STIMULATION HELP PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA?
Whether used to improve mental health, provide cognitive stimulation, or support independence and daily skills, multisensory stimulation empowers seniors to live their best lives. A meaningful and engaging sensory experience will:
Reduce anxiety & agitation
A calm, controlled environment offers relief from overstimulation and stress, whether through soft lighting, gentle music, or calming aromas.
Support memory retention
A familiar scent such as lavender, or a favourite song can trigger recollections of past experiences, helping with memory recall and giving individuals a sense of identity and belonging.
Improve communication
Dementia can be isolating- a sensory space allows seniors to express themselves through non-verbal communication and encourages interaction with carers and family in a safe and supportive environment.
Boost mood & well-being
A sensory space helps relieve boredom and depression, adding meaning and purpose to everyday life.
Promote relaxation & sleep
Sleep disturbance is a common issue for those living with dementia. A tranquil sensory space that includes stimuli like sounds from nature, soothing scents, or even a weighted blanket can help individuals relax and create a calming bedtime routine.
Note that while here we predominantly discuss sensory for seniors living with dementia, approximately 10% per cent of all people with dementia have young-onset dementia and are under the age of 65. While multisensory stimulation is beneficial to all age groups, the application and relevance of sensory equipment and resources may differ.
In addition, we recommend consulting a relevant healthcare professional before providing multisensory stimulation for people living with specific medical requirements.
HOW SENSORY THERAPY IMPACTS THOSE CARING FOR PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA
The benefits of a sensory space also extend to carers and staff, who should notice a positive change in their relationship with residents and their work environment. A welcoming and compassionate space promotes effective communication and helps patients and seniors feel more open to receiving care and support.
For best results, staff and carers must have a clear understanding of how a sensory space works. Before a sensory space or equipment is used for the first time, we strongly encourage all relevant staff to attend a training session and discuss the following points…
The purpose of the sensory space
- What are the desired outcomes of the space?
- Is the sensory space always accessible to residents?
- Is there a limit to how many residents should be in the space at one time?
- Is the space also open to visiting families and friends?
How each sensory item works
- How are products turned on and off, adjusted, and controlled?
- What is the stimulating/ calming effect of each product?
- What sensory input does each product provide?
How much is too much?
- How can overstimulation be prevented?
- How can the noise and lighting be controlled?
Ongoing monitoring and feedback are also important – from patients and staff alike. Questions to consider here include:
- Are the products achieving the desired outcomes?
- Are users receiving the correct amount/ type of sensory stimulation?
- Do users feel comfortable and safe in the space?
- Are users spending the right amount of time in the space?
HOW TO CREATE A DEMENTIA-FRIENDLY SENSORY SPACE
There are several important factors to consider when creating a sensory space for individuals living with dementia.
Check access & usability
For users who may also be experiencing reduced mobility and cognitive decline, safety must come first.
In a sensory room, this can include non-slip flooring, rounded edges on furniture, removing trip hazards, and creating open and wheelchair-friendly pathways. Other points to consider include switches and controls – are these in easy reach? Are wall-mounted activities at a suitable height?
Prevent overstimulation
Avoid clutter and busy patterns that may lead to confusion or anxiety, and instead create a peaceful atmosphere with calming colours such as blues, greens and pastels. Make sure sensory input – particularly the lighting – is controlled and adaptable to each patient’s needs. For dementia patients, we recommend avoiding products with mirrors, moving reflections, and flickering or harsh lights.
Add personalisation
Tailor the sensory space to individual preferences – introduce familiar sounds and scents, or include personal items such as photographs and mementos that trigger positive memories.
Zone the space
Think about how the space will be used, and zone accordingly e.g. a quiet zone to rest if feeling overstimulated, a seating area for group activities and social interaction, and an activity zone for puzzles and crafting.
Keep it age-appropriate
Ensure the furniture and equipment is not juvenile or demeaning. The environment should feel comforting, warm and familiar, so patients feel calm rather than overstimulated. Introduce natural elements such as plants and images of the ocean or landscapes.
How carers and staff interact with patients is also key to ensuring sensory items do not feel juvenile to the user. Provide validation by discussing how a sensory item makes the individual feel, or what it reminds them of. An example here is fibre optics, which can be linked to Christmas lights, and in turn used to discuss how the individual may have spent Christmas with their family.
RECCOMENDED SENSORY PRODUCTS FOR DEMENTIA
A successful sensory space addresses all the senses – sight, sound, smell, touch, movement, and even taste. Here are our top 10 product recommendations for creating a calming and dementia-friendly sensory space.
1. Therapy Rocker– Provide gentle vestibular input with a linear back-and-forth motion. This rocker is contoured to the body for extra comfort and helps calm and relax with its rhythmic motion.
2. Weighted Blanket – Wrap around the body for comfort, security, and a grounding deep-pressure input that can help reduce anxiety, encourage relaxation, and promote sleep. Its soft textured surface also offers an extra tactile sensation.
3. Ortoto Sensory Mats – With their variety of textures, colours and shapes, these mats offer fantastic multisensory stimulation. Use to awaken and massage the feet and hands, activate unused muscles, improve blood circulation, and develop the vestibular system.
4. Shaggy Green Rug – Add a cozy, inviting texture underfoot and help absorb sound. With its shaggy texture and green colour this mat is also reminiscent of grass – a great opportunity to initiate a memory or conversation around past experiences in nature.
5. Water Tone Cushions– Cushions are a soft, comforting addition to sit on, hold, and cuddle. These cushion colours are sophisticated and age-appropriate, while still offering tactile and visual interest.
6. Aroma Box – Release soothing scents into the room to evoke positive memories, reduce anxiety, and create a calming atmosphere. For extra visual and auditory stimulation, check out our Aroma Panel, which also includes lights and sound for a multisensory experience.
7. Fibre Optic Strands – Fibre optic strands are a quiet yet captivating sensory experience that encourages interaction and motor skill development. Change the colour to soothe and engage without overwhelming the senses.
8. Colour Wall Washer – Control the mood and colour of your sensory space with a diffused, indirect light. Soft lighting adds warmth and comfort while reducing agitation and stress.
9. LED Ceiling Tiles – Bring the outdoors in with the illusion of natural lighting and imagery. Install above a seating area for a mood-boosting and relaxing visual experience.
10. ActiveFloor Mobile Projector – Transform any floor, table, or bed table into an interactive surface with customisable sensory experiences. Focus on specific therapy goals or incorporate personal photos and stories to create meaningful activities and help with memory recall and lucidity.
Don’t have a spare room to dedicate to a sensory space? A Roma Sensory Unit is the perfect multi-functional unit for sensory therapy on the move. Portable, flexible, and practical, the Roma combines up to six sensory items into one compact unit, plus includes storage for extra resources.
The Roma is also ideal for users with limited mobility, and makes multisensory therapy accessible across multiple locations. Read more on the benefits of portable sensory equipment here.
Supporting individuals who live with dementia to maintain their identity and quality of life can be challenging, but with sensory stimulation, we can help bridge the gap between clinical care and overall well-being.
Ultimately, multisensory therapy improves cognitive and emotional health, and through shared and meaningful interactions, reminds us of the profound impact of compassionate care.
