The Use of Multisensory Environments with Individuals with Developmental Disabilities: A Systematic Review

Multi-sensory rooms were originally intended as a leisure option for people with severe disabilities living in institutions. Their use has extended far beyond this and proponents, particularly equipment suppliers, continue to claim a range of benefits beyond provision of a leisure experience. We review the literature on the effects of MSEs on people with developmental disabilities other than autism spectrum disorders. The research examined was predominately of very poor quality, limiting conclusions that can be drawn. MSEs were used in a variety of ways with the wide range of outcomes measured addressing reduction of challenging behaviours and promoting more desirable behaviours. The majority of reported results were mixed or negative, with better quality studies more likely to report no effects. Overall, based on the available evidence, the use of MSEs cannot be recommended as an intervention option for individuals with developmental disabilities, but they may have a limited role as a leisure option.