The Use of Glider Chairs to Support Sensory Modulation in Community Mental Health Settings: Qualitative Analysis of Multidisciplinary Staff’s Perspectives

Abstract

Sensory modulation has growing evidence supporting use within inpatient settings; however, few studies focus on community mental health and specific sensory equipment integrated into the environment for consumers. Qualitative methodology was used to explore 31 staff's perspectives on glider chair use in community mental health (consumers aged 16–65 years). Five themes emerged: (1) Use when anxiety or distress are present; (2) Various explanations of benefits; (3) Facilitates the treatment process; (4) Limited understanding and need for training; (5) Physical, social, and financial barriers. Sensory modulation interventions may enhance consumers’ engagement in treatment. Research exploring consumers’ perspectives of sensory modulation interventions is required. Implications for occupational therapy practice This study suggests the following implications for occupational therapy and mental health practice: •Sensory equipment, such as glider chairs, may be useful for consumers’ self-management of anxiety and distress across a range of mental health treatment settings, including community mental health treatment services. •Consumers’ ability to engage in treatment may be improved with the use of sensory modulation interventions/equipment that provides a sense of calm and comfort. •Occupational therapists are viewed as leaders of sensory modulation interventions in mental health practice and likely need to drive multidisciplinary staff sensory modulation training and use to promote continuity of care from acute mental health settings to real-life environments in the community. •Multidisciplinary staff may be uncertain about why sensory modulation interventions have a positive influence on consumers’ behavior and functioning and occupational therapists can respond to this uncertainty with support in the form of sensory modulation education.