Functional impact of sensory processing problems

Below are some examples of the functional impact of sensory processing problems:

Tactile Defensiveness:
Strong clothing preferences and avoidances e.g. clothes feeling itchy
Aversion to showers
Aversion to clothes tags or jewellery
Dislike the feeling of bare feet
Discomfort with suprise touch e.g. hugging, hand-shaking
Discomfort with intimate relationships
Vestibular Defensiveness

Riding in car causes vomiting

Poor balance

Aversive to walking down steep stairs

Visual Defensiveness

Sensitivity to visual stimuli e.g. brightness and contrast

Auditory Defensiveness

Defensive to sounds

Distracted when other people are talking

Olfactory/Oral Defensiveness

Nauseated by odours

Extreme food preferences

Praxis

Difficulty learning new skills particularly learning numbers, letters and spatial organisation

Life impact

Discomfort with touch affecting interpersonal behaviour

Discomfort in crowded places

Frequently feel anxious and tense

Avoidance of social events due to need to dress up

Need to maintain own space

Avoid routine medical procedures e.g. shots, dentist

Often describe self as extremely neat, organised, routine orientated

The occupational therapist needs to be aware of the sensory processing problems that could impact on their clients ability to engage in everyday life. For example social events, work, leisure, parenting, and organisation skills. May-Benson (2011) discusses how cccupational therapists are in a unique position to expand their practice into areas where sensory processing issues may impact on people.

References

May-Benson, T. (2011). Understanding the occupational therapy needs of adults with sensory processing disorder. OT Practice, 16(10),13-18.