Date Presented 04/03/2025
This presentation shares a newly completed systematic review of evidence for the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions for children and youth. Recent evidence will be reviewed, summarized, and applied.
Primary Author and Speaker: Aimee Piller
Additional Authors and Speakers: Jessica McHugh Conlin, Kelly Diane Auld-Wright, Krysti Teng, Lauren Andelin, Tara Glennon
PURPOSE: This systematic review aimed to examine the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions (SBIs), including sensory techniques (non-Ayres Sensory Integration®), caregiver education/training, and sensory environmental modifications (SEM) to support functioning and participation of children with challenges in integrating and processing sensory input that interferes with participation in everyday life.
DESIGN: Systematic review encompassing peer-reviewed articles published between May 2015 and January 2024.
METHOD: We used six databases. Search terms were based on the research questions and performed using a Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) term search. Participants included children with documented sensory processing differences and/or disorders commonly associated with sensory processing differences such as autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, and 3) published in English, 4) have participation based outcomes. We used Johns Hopkins Nursing levels of evidence (2022) and included studies of levels I, II, and III. We explored three aspects of SBIs: sensory technique (modalities to address various sensory systems), caregiver training, and SEMs.
RESULTS: Of the 32,942 records screened 21 met the inclusion criteria. Moderate strength of evidence to support the following: using more than one sensory modality to support participation rather than use in isolation, deep pressure tactile input supports functional participation. Strong strengthof evidence supports caregiver sensory education. Moderate strength of evidence demonstrated no impact of alternative seating on attention and functional behavior. There is not currently enough evidence to decide on the effectiveness of SEMs.
CONCLUSION: There is mixed evidence of SBIs depending on the target and type of intervention. Caregiver education was supported, while SEMs require more research.
IMPACT STATEMENT: Reviewing evidence of SBIs promotes using effective interventions.
References
Dang, D., Dearholt, S., Bissett, K., Ascenzi, J., & Whalen, M. (2022). Johns Hopkins evidence-based practice for nurses and healthcare professionals: Model and guidelines. 4th ed. Sigma Theta Tau International.
American Occupational Therapy Association. (2023). Position Statement: Sensory integration approaches for children and youth within occupational therapy practice. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 77(Suppl. 3), 7713410230. https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2023.77S3004
