A comparison study of sensory processing in older adults with and without dementia

Sensory processing is affected by aging, and dementia may lead to changes in sensory processing. This study aimed to examine the differences in sensory processing and sensory modulation between older adults with and without dementia.

This study was designed as a comparative study of community-dwelling older adults aged 65 years and older with and without dementia. Participants and their caregivers were recruited at the occupational therapy clinic of a public hospital. They completed a sociodemographic information form and the Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile to assess sensory processing and sensory modulation.

The study included 120 older adults (60 with dementia and 60 without dementia) aged 75.35 ± 7.86 years. Older adults with dementia showed an above-norm low registration (x ² = 27.62) and sensory sensitive (x ² = 14.96) compared to without dementia. However, no significant differences were observed between the groups in sensation seeking and sensation avoiding (p > 0.05). There was a difference between the two groups in taste/smell, movement, visual, touch, and auditory modulation (p < 0.05).

These findings highlight significant differences in sensory processing and modulation associated with dementia. Understanding these differences may offer valuable insights for developing individualized approaches to dementia management.