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

Amanda Wilkinson, Allyson Calder, Beth Elliott, Ryan Rodger, Hilda Mulligan, Leigh Hale and Meredith Perry ()
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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

IJERPH, 2023, vol. 20, issue 19, 1-15

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.

Keywords: multi-sensory environments; disabled people; accessibility; community-based facilities; social connection; culturally safe; self-determination; autonomy; choice; control (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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