Creating and Utilizing a Sensory Room in a Skilled Nursing Setting

This course examines the design and therapeutic use of sensory rooms to enhance resident care, comfort, and engagement in skilled nursing and rehabilitation settings. Participants will learn how to implement multisensory strategies to promote relaxation, cognitive stimulation, andemotional well-being for those with dementia, neurological conditions, and sensory processing challenges. Attendees will apply evidence-based techniques to create and adapt sensory environments for varying functional levels and therapy goals specific to resident needs. Emphasis is placedon interdisciplinary collaboration between physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists and nursing staff to integrate sensory interventions into daily routines and rehabilitation plans. By the end of the course,participants will be able to create and operate sensoryspaces that support recovery, reduce behavioral symptoms, and elevate quality of life for residents.

Highlights

• Use sensory environments to reduce agitation, anxiety, and isolation (especially for residents with dementia, cognitive decline, or sensory impairments)
• Implement strategies to create sensory-safe spaces accommodating diverse sensory profiles, mobility levels, andcognitive abilities

Target Audience: Physical Therapists, Physical Therapist Assistants, Occupational Therapists, Occupational Therapy Assistants, Speech-Language Pathologists