Sensory processing differences are one of the hallmarks of autism spectrum disorder and affect the way individuals with ASD perceive and respond to sensory stimuli in their environment. As such, these sensory experiences can be overwhelming, confusing, or even painful for those on the spectrum and may even create challenges in daily life. However, with appropriate strategies and support, it is possible to help individuals with autism navigate their sensory world more comfortably. This article will discuss some of the challenges associated with sensory processing in autism and provide practical solutions to help in managing such experiences.
Understanding Sensory Processing in Autism
Sensory processing is how the brain interprets and reacts to the information received from the senses, which include sight, sound, touch, taste, smell, and proprioception, the awareness of the position of one’s body. One constant characteristic that is linked with autism is differences within sensory processing. This can take the form of oversensitivity or hypersensitivity—overly responding to the sensory input—or hyposensitivity—under-responding to it. These differences may impact daily routines, from getting dressed to interacting in social situations. Hypersensitivity could make a person feel uneasy or even distressed due to very bright lights, extremely loud noises, or certain textures. For example, a child that is hypersensitive to sound covers the ears in loud environments or becomes troubled by some kinds of music. On the other hand, hyposensitivity may lead to searching for such sensory input, which an individual may strive to get through repeated movements or attraction to smells that are too intense and colors that are too bright.
Common Sensory Difficulties in Autism
1. Auditory Sensitivity: Noises that are very loud or sudden in nature—sirens, alarms, or crowded environments—can be over-stimulating and a cause of anxiety. Everyday sounds, such as a vacuum cleaner or blender, can be distressing.
2. Visual Sensitivity: Bright lights, flashing screens, or busy patterns may be uncomfortable or distracting to look at. Fluorescent lighting may also be particularly bothersome to some and makes it difficult to focus in visually overstimulating environments.
3. Tactile Sensitivity: People can be oversensitive to touch. Some textures or articles of clothing may feel uncomfortable. Clothing tags, some fabrics, or even light touches may be perceived as annoying or even painful.
4. Olfactory Sensitivity: Strong smells are over-stimulation, whether they are fragrance acceptable or foul-smelling. This could be from perfume, cleaning products, or specific foods.
5. Gustatory Sensitivity: Sensory processing differences can affect taste and therefore have a preference towards specific textures or tastes, hating others. This then leads to very selective eating.
6. Proprioceptive and Vestibular Sensitivity: Individuals with proprioception and vestibular processing challenges commonly have coordination, movement, and balance issues. Some seek out activities providing deep pressure and like to rock and spin.
Sensory Challenges: Practical Solutions and Strategies
Sensory processing challenges are momentous; however, there are practical solutions and tools that can greatly help increase effectiveness in managing one’s sensory experiences if one is living with autism.
• Create a Sensory-Friendly Environment: Indeed, decreasing sensory overload in the comfort of one’s own home or in the classroom makes quite the difference. These could be as simple as dimming the lights, decreasing background noise, or even using noise-canceling headphones. Neutral colors and less clutter could equal a more serene space.
• Build in sensory breaks: Repeated sensory breaks throughout the day allow for management of sensory input. They could be part of activities with deep pressure, like with a weighted blanket, or other soothing sensory actions or quiet time spent in a low-stimulation environment.
• Use Sensory Tools: Items such as fidget toys, necklaces that a person can chew on, or fabrics with different textures may assist the person in self-regulation and concentration. Weighted vests or compression clothing/body socks can also provide organizing proprioceptive input.
• Introduce Gradual Exposure: Gradually exposing a person to the sensory stimuli may make them more tolerant of them over time. For example, gradual exposure to different textures or sounds in a setting that is supportive and controlled may decrease anxiety and sensitivity.
• Build Coping Skills: Teaching deep breathing, mindfulness, or visualization techniques can empower the individual to cope better with sensory overload. Encourage self-advocacy by teaching the use of requesting a break or words to express sensory needs.
• Collaborate with Occupational Therapists: Occupational therapists experienced in sensory integration can diagnose the difficulties related to sensory processing and develop intervention plans that are individualized. OTs would empower the parents/caregivers to facilitate strategies for sensory regulation, thereby enhancing daily functioning.
Supporting Sensory Needs in Social Situations
Social environments such as schools, workplaces, and public spaces can be even more challenging for those who have sensory processing differences. It is important that the environment is inclusive and respects a person’s sensory needs:
• Quiet Spaces: Provide quiet spaces in the schools/workplaces where individuals can go if they feel overwhelmed by too many sensory inputs.
• Seating Options: For comfort and attentiveness, one should allow flexible seating options for different seating positions of each individual that would help in reducing sensory distractions.
• Encourage open communication about sensory preferences and needs; this could be discussing accommodations with teachers, employers, or peers in putting up a supportive environment.
Sensory processing differences are core to autism and can create huge challenges—though with the right kind of support, people on the spectrum can better navigate their sensory experiences. By knowing and meeting the needs, we can continue creating more inclusive
environments to enable people who have autism to excel. From sensory-friendly environments and coping strategies to professional support, there are many methods to make the person who has an autism diagnosis feel much more relaxed and confident in their sensory world.
