Sensory profile applications in adolescents and adults in the health care: a narrative review of the literature

Abstract

Introduction Understanding the type of sensory information processed and the reactions to various sensory stimuli is critical for neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders in adolescents and adults. This literature review explores the different applications of three of the most commonly used instruments for assessing sensory modulation from adolescence. Objective To identify and synthesize the existing information about the applications of the sensory profile for adolescents and adults, as well as the sensory processing questionnaire. Method Narrative review of the literature in which was conducted a sensitivity test to establish keywords and identify relevant data sources. The research was carried out using databases such as WOS, Scopus, SciELO, LILACS, and the Chilean Journal of Occupational Therapy, covering the period from 2002 to January 2023, following predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results A total of 64 articles were analyzed where the findings were that the use of the sensory profile instrument for adolescents and adults is used in more than 20 pathologies and also in healthy population. The sensory processing questionnaire is in the initial stage of application and validation of the instrument in several countries. Conclusion This is the first narrative literature review of the three sensory processing assessment instruments available for adolescents and adults. These three clinical instruments are complementary and provide relevant information to the clinician for diagnosing sensory processing and guiding occupational therapy intervention.