Introduction: A Soothing Sensory Journey
Imagine a space where time stands still, where the senses are gently stimulated by changing lights, enveloping music, and textures to explore. A place where one can deeply relax, away from the demands of daily life. This is the essence of the Snoezelen approach.
Born in the Netherlands in the 1970s, the Snoezelen concept (a contraction of "snuffelen" - to explore, and "doezelen" - to doze) offers multisensory stimulation in a specially designed environment. Initially developed for people with disabilities, it has found increasing application in geriatrics, where it shows promising effects on agitation and behavioral disorders.
Understanding the Snoezelen Approach
The Snoezelen Philosophy
Snoezelen is not a therapy in the strict sense, but an approach centered on sensory experience and well-being. The fundamental principles are to impose nothing (the person chooses what they explore), to expect nothing (no performance or outcome goals), to offer a safe and calming environment, and to prioritize the relationship and the present moment.
The Snoezelen Environment
A typical Snoezelen space includes visual stimuli (bubble columns, fiber optics, image projectors, changing colored lights), auditory stimuli (soft music, nature sounds, instruments), tactile stimuli (cushions with various textures, sensory balls, fabrics), olfactory stimuli (essential oil diffusion), proprioceptive stimuli (water mattresses, vibrating chairs), and suitable furniture (poufs, mattresses, comfortable seating).
The Mechanisms of Action
Snoezelen works through several mechanisms: controlled sensory stimulation that captures attention without overwhelming, a calming environment that reduces stress and anxiety, a privileged relationship with the caregiver, and a break from the usual environment that allows for a "pause" of relaxation.
Snoezelen and Behavioral Disorders
Observed Effects
Studies on Snoezelen in geriatrics show a reduction in agitation during and after sessions, a decrease in anxiety, an improvement in mood and well-being, a facilitation of the relationship with the caregiver, and a calming of disruptive behaviors.
Limitations
The effects are often temporary, requiring regular sessions. The heterogeneity of studies makes conclusions cautious. Some individuals may be destabilized by the unusual environment.
Preferred Indications
The Snoezelen approach is particularly suitable for individuals experiencing recurrent agitation, chronic stress or anxiety, withdrawal and apathy behaviors, difficulties in verbal communication, and hypersensitivity to stimuli from the usual environment.
Practical Implementation
Creating a Snoezelen Space
A dedicated space is not always necessary: a quiet room can be arranged with mobile equipment. The investment can be gradual, starting with a few basic elements.
Essential Elements: dimmable and adjustable lighting, bubble column or fiber optics, music diffuser, comfortable cushions and mattresses.Complementary Elements: image projector, tactile panel, aroma diffuser, vibrating seat.
Conducting a Session
Preparation: prepared environment, pleasant temperature, dim lighting.Duration: generally 30 to 45 minutes.
Support: the presence of a trained caregiver is essential to observe reactions and adapt the environment.
End of Session: gradual transition back to the usual environment.
The "Sensory Carts": A Mobile Alternative
For individuals who cannot move, carts equipped with sensory elements can be brought to their room: fiber optics, lava lamp, music player, tactile objects.
Training Teams
Implementing Snoezelen requires specific training in the philosophy of the approach, the use of equipment, and the observation of the reactions of the individuals being supported.
DYNSEO offers training on behavioral disorders that addresses sensory approaches.Access training for professionals
For families, simple adaptations can be made at home: relaxation corner with dim lighting, soft music, objects to manipulate.
Access training for families
Combining Snoezelen and Cognitive Stimulation
The SCARLETT Program
After a soothing Snoezelen session, the individual may be in a better state for a cognitive stimulation activity with the SCARLETT program.
Discover the SCARLETT program
Conclusion
The Snoezelen approach offers a sensory relaxation space-time particularly beneficial for agitated or anxious individuals. It harmoniously complements other non-drug approaches in a comprehensive management of behavioral disorders.
DYNSEO Resources:- SCARLETT program for seniors
- CLINT program for adults
