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"She Would Love That": Identifying Community Needs in a Multisensory Environment
Summary
Community members desired a multisensory environment (MSE) that is safe, inclusive, and accessible. This research guided the design of a new MSE to meet local needs and preferences for sensory stimulation and flexible booking.
Area of Science:
- Community-based participatory research
- Sensory environments
- Healthcare accessibility
Background:
- Collaboration between CareWays Community and the University of Wollongong to research community needs for a multisensory environment (MSE).
- Focus on the Illawarra region of Australia for community care services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To understand community requirements and requests for a multisensory environment (MSE) through community-based participatory research (CBPR).
- To inform the design and implementation of a MSE prior to its construction.
Main Methods:
- Mixed methods approach including focus groups and telephone interviews with 24 participants (caregivers, educators).
- Delphi method used to survey 87 respondents over two rounds to identify preferred MSE equipment.
Main Results:
- Community desires a safe, non-categorical environment suitable for diverse users.
- Preferences include private access, extended booking availability, and equipment stimulating all senses.
- Specific preferred equipment for the MSE was identified.
Conclusions:
- Research successfully identified community needs and preferences for a multisensory environment (MSE).
- Findings have been integrated into the design and construction of the Careways MSE, ensuring alignment with community expectations.