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Disabled People or Their Support Persons’ Perceptions of a Community Based Multi-Sensory Environment (MSE): A Mixed-Method Study

Author

Listed:
  • Amanda Wilkinson

    (Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand)

  • Allyson Calder

    (Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand)

  • Beth Elliott

    (Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand)

  • Ryan Rodger

    (Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand)

  • Hilda Mulligan

    (Canterbury Multi-Sensory Trust, Christchurch 8024, New Zealand)

  • Leigh Hale

    (Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand)

  • Meredith Perry

    (Centre for Health, Activity and Rehabilitation Research, School of Physiotherapy, University of Otago, Dunedin 9054, New Zealand)

Abstract

Multi-sensory environments (MSEs) are specialised spaces purposely designed to stimulate the senses, whilst providing a calming and relaxing environment for leisure and enjoyment, predominantly intended for disabled people. Most MSEs are in institutions, hospitals, or educational settings, with a few in community-based settings. We explored disabled users’ experiences of a community based MSE in a large metropolitan area in New Zealand, with a view to expanding access to MSE-type environments within the area. We used a convergent mixed method design with a web-based electronic survey (e-survey; n = 105), as well as semi-structured interviews ( n = 14) with disabled MSE users (adults and children), who were supported, where necessary, by their support person/s. We collected the MSE users’ demographics, frequency of use with respect to age, disability, and ethnicity, and experiences of the room, equipment, and accessibility. The participants and their support persons’ perspectives about their experiences of using the MSE were represented by four themes: (i) Self-determination; (ii) Enhancing wellbeing opportunities; (iii) the MSE itself; (iv) Accessibility. While the MSE was considered positively, the MSE experience could be enhanced by addressing access challenges and broadening the scope of equipment to improve the usability and make it a more inclusive environment for all.

Suggested Citation

  • Amanda Wilkinson & Allyson Calder & Beth Elliott & Ryan Rodger & Hilda Mulligan & Leigh Hale & Meredith Perry, 2023. "Disabled People or Their Support Persons’ Perceptions of a Community Based Multi-Sensory Environment (MSE): A Mixed-Method Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 20(19), pages 1-15, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:20:y:2023:i:19:p:6805-:d:1245531
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Meredith Perry & Lucy Cotes & Benjamin Horton & Rebecca Kunac & Isaac Snell & Blake Taylor & Abbey Wright & Hemakumar Devan, 2021. "“Enticing” but Not Necessarily a “Space Designed for Me”: Experiences of Urban Park Use by Older Adults with Disability," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(2), pages 1-19, January.
    2. Bliss Cavanagh & Kirsti Haracz & Miranda Lawry & Carole James, 2020. "Receptive Arts Engagement for Health: A Holistic and Trans-Disciplinary Approach to Creating a Multisensory Environment," SAGE Open, , vol. 10(4), pages 21582440209, December.
    3. Michael L. Wehmeyer, 2020. "The Importance of Self-Determination to the Quality of Life of People with Intellectual Disability: A Perspective," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 17(19), pages 1-7, September.
    4. Amanda Wilkinson & Lucy Bowen & Elias Gustavsson & Simon Håkansson & Nicole Littleton & James McCormick & Michelle Thompson & Hilda Mulligan, 2019. "Maintenance and Development of Social Connection by People with Long-term Conditions: A Qualitative Study," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 16(11), pages 1-11, May.
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