Rationales for the referral and completion of sensory assessments for adults with Developmental Disabilities

Introduction: Adults with developmental disabilities displaying challenging behaviours are difficult to provide care for. Occupational therapists are frequently asked to provide a sensory assessment and intervention to address this. Currently, there is little evidence of the efficacy of sensory assessment and intervention on managing behaviour in adults with disabilities. This study explored the reasons that caregivers and health professionals request sensory assessment and intervention. Objectives: (i) To understand the reasoning for referral for sensory assessment by and OT and (ii) explore the rationales for sensory based interventions for adults with developmental disabilities. Methods: Information from an initial audit of referrals for sensory assessments was used to guide the project. Eighteen participants were recruited using purposive sampling. Three participant groups were identified: health professionals and service providers, caregivers, and occupational therapists. Semi-structured interviews were completed with all participants. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and member checked. Content analysis was used to identify themes. Results: Participants across all groups had difficulties in defining 'sensory issues' and did not feel confident in knowing when a referral for a sensory assessment referral was appropriate. Participants would primarily refer or request sensory assessments to explore reasons for, or management of behaviours. Conclusions: The participants demonstrated a limited understanding of the purpose of sensory assessments, and sensory issues for the population; potentially leading to inappropriate referrals and dissatisfaction with sensory assessments and interventions by occupational therapists. Further research is urgently needed to ensure appropriate use of occupational therapy assessments with challenging behaviours in adult disability populations