Ep. 30 Making Hospitals Sensory-Friendly

70% of autistic individuals have at least one mental health condition, but here's the kicker—the very hospitals meant to help them might be making everything worse. Picture this: you're already in crisis, then you're hit with buzzing fluorescent lights, scratchy bedsheets, and the smell of industrial cleaning solutions. For autistic teens, it's a recipe for prolonged stays and increased meltdowns. But what if we actually asked them what would help? That's exactly what UK researchers did, and their findings will change how OTPs think about every clinical space. From the surprising impact of curved walls on the vestibular system to the "spiky sensory profiles" - this episode discusses surprisingly simple occupational therapy interventions that could transform care overnight.

We share our own thoughts in the Research Review and encourage you to read the article too.

Williams, G., Corbyn, J., & Hart, A. (2023). Improving the sensory environments of mental health in-patient facilities for autistic children and young people. Child Care in Practice, 29(1), 35–53. https://doi.org/10.1080/13575279.2022.2126437

KEYWORDS: Occupational therapy; evidence-based practice; OT; OT ideas; Peds OT; pediatric occupational therapy; autism; mental health; hospital; sensory; sensory supports; sensory friendly; neurodiversity

Stay informed, stay curious, and stay playful!

✏️ Sign up for our newsletter by clicking here.

📧 Email us a question or comment at IdeasAtPlayPodcast@gmail.com

👉 Find us on Instagram @ideas.at.play