In the general population, 1 in 20 people experience some sensory differences. In autism, this figure can rise to 80%, with some people experiencing significant sensory differences in some or all of their senses.
Sensory input is anything that is interpreted by the senses, ie, hearing; sight; touch; smell; taste; balance and body awareness. The term sensory integration refers to how our brains receive and process sensory information from both the body and the environment.
People with autism may underreact or overreact to some kinds of sensory input. Both outcomes can impact greatly on how a person experiences the world around them. These experiences will be different for each person, and their sensory issues may vary depending on things like the time of day, the weather, or their levels of stress and anxiety.
The pitch of certain sounds can be painful to some people.
They may find it difficult to cope in noisy environments and may need to make noise to help them to cope with external sounds.
Some people with autism have a good eye for detail, and may see colours and patterns that others cannot see. This can be distracting but can also be an asset.
Some people may not be able to cope with being touched, the feel of certain fabrics, or labels in their clothing.
Others may enjoy touch or the feeling of pressure, so they may prefer to wear tight fitting or heavy clothing. Some people may experience pain, heat or cold differently.
Strong smells like perfume or deodorant can be difficult to cope with.
Environments like restaurants or public toilets can, therefore, be difficult to access, although some people may actively seek out these strong smells.
Some individuals have very limited diets, due to preferring certain textures or bland food.
Others may seek out strong flavours like spicy food as they are under-responsive to taste.
Differences in these senses may cause people to start jumping, rocking or flapping. This may also help them to be aware where they are in space.
They might appear to be clumsy and more prone to bump into things.
Occupational therapists can undertake sensory assessments and can advise on specific strategies to support people with sensory differences.
