Research summaries for autism therapy: sensory integration

definition of sensory integration: Neurological process that organizes sensation from one's own body and the environment. Sensory integration makes it possible to use the body effectively within the environment. Children with autism are believed to have difficulties integrating sensory information. One program, the Bolles Sensory Learning Program, uses stimulation of visual (visual integration training), auditory, and vestibular (balance) senses to help improve sensory issues.
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Sensory Processing in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Summarized Oct 19, 2010

Sensory processing disorder may persist in adults with autism and perhaps should be addressed with treatment.

The aim of this study was to see if sensory processing disorder was common in adults with autism. This study compared levels of sensory processing in adults with autism with an age and IQ score matched group using a self-report measure of sensory processing (Adult/Adolescent Sensory Profile – AASP). The authors found that adults with autism report high levels of sensory response compared to the control group. This is in contrast to a study that found that sensory processing issues decreased as children with autism became adults. The authors note that people with autism varied quite a bit with regards to their sensory processing disorder.

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Enhanced Independence and Quality of Life Through Treatment with Flotation-Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique of a Patient with Both Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and Asperger Syndrome: A Case Report, Summarized Sep 7, 2010

Flotation tanks may be a useful tool for calming the nervous system and helping with sensory integration in adults with Asperger syndrome and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

This case study describes an adult with Asperger syndrome and ADHD who was treated with flotation-Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique (flotation-REST). The 36-year old woman from Sweden also had depression. She was given 19 sessions over a year and at the end felt that she was better able to live life on her own. With time she learned to control how alert she was (arousal control). She also learned to control how active she was (activity regulation). Her senses relaxed and she became better at sensory integration.

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Strategies for Supporting the Sensory-Based Learner, Summarized Jul 29, 2010

An understanding of sensory-based behaviors combined with applied behavior analysis (ABA) may help teachers improve the behaviors and learning of children with autism.

Learners with autism may: 1) be sensory seekers who are on the move; 2) have a low response to sensory input and seem passive or aloof; or 3) have a large response to sensory input and have anxiety. These sensory needs may cause the child to act in certain ways, thereby causing some problem behaviors. The authors suggest that teachers address these sensory-based needs in order for learning to take place. If teachers can see the sensory needs of the child, then the teachers may be able to suggest other behaviors that meet the child’s sensory needs and also allow for learning to take place. Read more...

Qigong Massage Treatment for Sensory and Self-Regulation Problems in Young Children with Autism: A Randomized Controlled Trial, Summarized Apr 1, 2010

Qigong massage therapy may help reduce the symptoms of autism in young children, both at school and at home.

This study looked to see if 5 months of qigong massage therapy would improve symptoms of autism compared to controls. The study showed that qigong massage reduced symptoms of autism as measured by tests of behavior and abilities. The children who received qigong massage showed improved sensory and physical systems. The children also gained skills for social learning. The authors plan to expand the study to look at the effects of qigong massage on the nervous system (vagal tone).

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Showing 1-4 of 64 results

Synonyms for sensory integration include: Bolles Sensory Learning Program, sensory, sensory integration disorder, sensory integration therapy, visual integration, visual integration training
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