Sensory Integration Network

22/05/2026

Older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) may face a greater risk of falls due to challenges with balance, , and cognitive-motor coordination. While research findings are mixed, evidence suggests that changes in postural control and dual-task performance could play a role. More research is needed to better understand these factors and improve fall prevention strategies for healthy aging.

https://doi.org/10.1163/22134808-bja10191

Follow us to keep up to date on the latest research in Sensory Integration and Neurodiversity.

To learn more about supporting individuals with sensory differences across the lifespan see the link below:
https://www.sensoryintegrationeducation.com/bundles/Sensory-Inclusion-Facilitator-Certificate-B

21/05/2026

Perimenopause can change more than hormones… it can change how the world feels 🌍💥

Are sounds suddenly too loud? Lights too bright? Busy places completely exhausting? You’re not imagining it.

In her latest blog, Dr Lelanie Brewer explores the link between perimenopause and sensory processing differences — and why everyday environments can suddenly feel overwhelming.

💡 Learn:
✔️ Why sensory overload happens during perimenopause
✔️ How hormones affect the nervous system
✔️ Practical ways to reduce overwhelm
✔️ Why many neurodivergent women struggle more during this transition

Read the full blog here 👇

21/05/2026

The Arsenal Foundation has helped fund Whittington Hospital’s new Calm Cove sensory room, creating a calmer, more welcoming space for children with

https://www.arsenal.com/community/stories/whittington-sensory-room

20/05/2026

📢 Available as a special purchase until 24th May only, this on-demand webinar ‘Rethinking Mental Health Through Sensory Formulation’ explores how understanding sensory responses can transform the way we support individuals experiencing distress, dysregulation and overwhelm.

Hosted by OT and Advanced SI Practitioner Becky Matson, this webinar will help you:
✨ Understand the neurological basis of dysregulation
✨ Reframe behaviours through a sensory lens
✨ Develop trauma-informed sensory formulations
✨ Build a shared language that empowers individuals

FREE for SIE Lifelong Learning members!

Access the webinar here 👇

20/05/2026

🎉 All of us at SIE are delighted to see this research published!

Co-authored by our own Dr Lelanie Brewer, this systematic review investigated factors influencing self-care in children and young people as well as interventions that support self-care in children and young people with developmental disabilities.

Dr Brewer shares: "Participation in self-care activities, such as dressing, eating, toileting, and washing, plays a vital role in children's development, well-being and daily participation. Although improving support for these skills is a priority for families, service providers, and decision-makers, research into how self-care develops and the most effective ways to support it remains limited. This research highlights important future directions for addressing these gaps."

Congratulations Lelanie 👏

Read the full paper: https://doi.org/10.1111/cch.70285

19/05/2026

New research from Johns Hopkins suggests that a simple combination of sensory and motor function tests—like hearing, balance, grip strength, and walking speed—could help detect mild cognitive impairment (MCI) earlier.

In studies involving 1,500+ older adults, stronger sensorimotor function was consistently linked to a lower risk of MCI, a condition that often goes undiagnosed and can progress to dementia. Researchers hope this combined measure could become an easy, scalable screening tool for earlier intervention and better brain health outcomes.

https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2026/combined-sensory-and-motor-function-score-may-help-assess-cognitive-impairment-often-underlying-dementia

Findings suggest combined sensorimotor assessment measure may support early detection of cognitive decline.

19/05/2026

🧠💙 As part of Dementia Action Week, we’re highlighting the importance of sensory informed care in care home settings.

Did you know sensory processing differences can significantly impact older adults’ wellbeing, participation, sleep, mood and even risk of falls?

From overwhelming communal spaces to difficulties during mealtimes, the sensory environment matters more than we may realise.

This blog explores how care homes can use a sensory informed approach to enhance quality of life for care home residents – including those living with dementia 💙🏡

📖 Read the blog here 👇

19/05/2026

Boots is partnering with University of Nottingham to explore how Memory Boxes can support dementia care through connection and reminiscence. To mark 2026, the research will examine how familiar sights, sounds and scents can spark memories, strengthen relationships and improve quality of life for people living with dementia.

https://www.miragenews.com/memory-boxes-role-in-dementia-care-explored-1672724/

18/05/2026

🧠 PANS/PANDAS can present with sudden and dramatic changes in sensory processing, emotional regulation, behaviour and daily functioning — but many professionals still feel underprepared to recognise the signs.

Join Dr Michelle Newby this Thursday for a live webinar exploring:
✔️ PANS/PANDAS diagnostic features and current research
✔️ Sensory processing changes and occupational impact
✔️ Regression, fluctuating presentations and participation challenges
✔️ Neurodiversity-affirming, sensory-informed OT approaches

This evidence-informed session is ideal for occupational therapists, SLTs, psychologists, educators, support workers and professionals supporting children with complex sensory and neurodevelopmental profiles.

📖 Free for SIE Lifelong Learning Members
📅 Thursday 21 May | 9am – 11am UK time
🔗 Book your place 👇

18/05/2026

This new scoping review synthesises evidence on gardening and garden-based interventions for people living with dementia and their caregivers. Across 32 studies, findings indicate consistent improvements in psychosocial wellbeing, mood, and behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia, with mixed evidence for cognitive outcomes and stronger support for preventive effects. Caregivers reported reduced psychological distress and enhanced perceived social support. Proposed mechanisms include meaningful engagement, stimulation, identity reinforcement, and restoration of purpose.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.archger.2026.106152



Follow us to keep up to date on the latest research in Sensory Integration and Neurodiversity.

To learn more about supporting individuals with sensory differences across the lifespan see the link below:
https://www.sensoryintegrationeducation.com/bundles/Sensory-Inclusion-Facilitator-Certificate-B

17/05/2026

Tribunal claims on neurodiversity discrimination are up 95% in five years yet only 6.5% of managers feel very confident discussing adjustments. The gap between policy and practice is growing, and one-off training isn’t cutting it.

https://www.thehrdirector.com/business-news/diversity-and-equality-inclusion/crisis-confidence-neurodiversity-adjustments-tribunals-hit-five-year-high/