To continue functioning adaptively, the individual needs constantly varying forms of sensory stimulation. Since such stimulation is often neglected in the nursing home environment, producing particularly devastating psychological effects in the sensorily impaired person, specific suggestions are provided for improving this situation. Orientation and mobility specialists can be invaluable catalysts in providing the skills and motivation necessary for enriching such an environment. Specialists and regular staff can, by analyzing the person's entire daily routine, provide many opportunities for additional sensory stimulation.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
LeidermanP. H., MendelsonJ. H., WexlerD., and SolomonP.Sensory deprivation: Clinical aspects.Archives of Internal Medicine, 1958, 101, 389–396.
2.
MossB. B.Caring for the aged.Garden City, New York: Doubleday, 1959.
3.
SchultzD. P.Sensory restriction: Effects on behavior.New York: Academic Press, 1965.
4.
SolomonP., KubzanskyP. E., LeidermanP. H., MendelsonJ. H., TrumbullR., and WexlerD. (Eds.) Sensory deprivation.Cambridge, Mass.: Harvard University Press, 1961.
5.
ZubeckJ. P., PushkarD., SansomW., and GowingJ.Perceptual changes after prolonged sensory isolation (darkness and silence).Canadian Journal of Psychology, 1961, 15, 83–100.
