Search for a command to run...
This study examined how stakeholders in an Adult Day Center for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (ID/DD) perceived their confidence, knowledge, and understanding of occupational therapy’s role in implementing Multi-Sensory Environment (MSE) strategies to support sensory needs. Adults with ID/DD commonly experience sensory processing differences that influence participation and engagement in daily activities; however, limited research exists on the use of MSE strategies in adult community-based settings. Guided by the Person–Environment–Occupation–Performance (PEOP) model and the Knowledge-to-Action (KTA) framework, this quantitative non-experimental study utilized a custom-designed survey to assess stakeholder perceptions across roles. Participants included direct service providers, support staff, and administrators employed at South Chicago Parents & Friends Adult Day Center. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze Likert-scale responses, and content analysis was applied to open-ended questions. Findings indicated that participants generally reported high levels of confidence and understanding regarding the purpose of MSEs, familiarity with sensory equipment, and perceived ability to implement sensory-based strategies within daily routines. Most participants reported limited formal training in MSE strategies, suggesting that confidence may be influenced by experiential learning and collaboration with occupational therapy practitioners. Commonly identified barriers included limited resources and equipment availability rather than personal skill or motivation. These results suggest that stakeholders perceived occupational therapy as essential in supporting the ongoing implementation and sustainment of MSE strategies within adult day programming. Findings highlight the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, environmental resources, and ongoing education to enhance sensory-based supports and promote meaningful participation for adults with ID/DD.