Thesis Blogs: Benefits and Application of the Snoezelen Concept

The Snoezelen concept is suitable for all ages. The Snoezelen rooms offer a relaxed atmosphere with various sound effects, pleasant surroundings, tactile experiences and gentle movements. Interesting lighting effects allows the individual to self regulate by choosing sensations. The sensory room provides an environment for interaction and engagement.

As said earlier the Snoezelen concept could be used for different ages and abilities such as:

1. Snoezelen for early years

2. Snoezelen for Challenging Behaviour

3. Snoezelen for Occupational Therapy

4. Snoezelen for Learning Disabilities

5. Snoezelen for Mental Health

6. Snoezelen for Autism

7. Snoezelen for Brain Injury

8. Snoezelen for the Elderly

The sensory rooms and Snoezelen technique would help the individual suffering from the disability to calm down and relax. The Snoezelen concept for learning disabilities is a very complex area of support. Clients for this area may have a diverse range of diagnoses that impact their life. These individuals may have a difficulty to understand, communicate and processing information which makes learning and engaging with others very difficult. Support in a sensory room mainly focuses on helping the individual to be independent.

These sensory rooms are spaces that are tailored for the individual suffering from the disability to meet their specific needs such as therapeutic and educational equipment. The use of projections are considered as one of the main pieces of equipment in these rooms due to the fact that they show various multimedia to suit the learning needs of the individual. Story telling could also be used in a multi sensorial environment. While telling a story, tactile items could be used to help the individual feel part of the story. For example if one is telling a story about the sea to the individual suffering from the disability then tactile items such as shells and sand could be brought in. Different aromas and effects such as the use of fans to create a breeze could also be used to help the individual enjoy the story more.

As said earlier a Multi Sensorial Environment could be used for various abilities and the limits of using an MSE are with the imagination of the facilitator or therapist and the possibilities are endless.