Vecta Distraction Station Multi-Sensory Environments

One of the newest and most exciting developments in recent years is the use of multi-sensory environments as a viable therapy option for a host of conditions. A variety of professionals now recognize the benefits of multi-sensory environments. In use in the Netherlands since the 1970's, multi-sensory environments are gaining popularity in the United States since being introduced in 1992.
 
What is a multi-sensory environment? According to Linda Messbauer, MA, OTR/L, "It is an artificially created venue that brings together multi-sensory equipment into one place to stimulate the senses in a dedicated room that attempts to block out noise, control space, temperature and lighting. This venue promotes pleasure and/or feelings of well-being and can be utilized as part of the learning or treatment experience, or for leisure and relaxation. It is Controlled Sensory Input (CSI), especially designed to promote choice, interaction, and relationships through planned stimulation of the senses."

The use of multi sensory environments to maximize focus and facilitate desirable adaptive response is gaining in popularity as a first line therapeutic tool for those with challenging behaviors or conditions, as well as those who realize the meditative benefits of distraction devices.  Multi-sensory environments such as the Vecta Distraction Station Multi-Sensory Environment which is offered by Rehabmart  can enhance a plethora of individual and group scenarios. New, innovative devices such as the Vecta Distraction Station Multi-Sensory Environment allows any facility; personal residences, hospitals, extended care facility, schools, nursing homes, assisted living, etc. - to create a multi-sensory environment
 
   
                                                                    From library.rehabmart.com
 
 Multi-sensory environments provide, first and foremost, an experiential process in a calm and safe environment. They can be 'staged' by using portable devices that can be transported into existing rooms. For successful conversion of a non-dedicated room into a multi-sensory environment, the control of outside influences such as noise, light, and temperature should be considered. According to the American Association of Multi Sensory Environments (AAMSE), the amount of materials and equipment dominating the multi sensory environments will be related to the severity of the diagnostic group being served and their ability to cope or block out unwanted information. In other words, professional consideration should be given to the population who will be utilizing the multi sensory environment.

The Vecta Distraction Station Multi-Sensory Environment offers many options for controlled sensory input such as bubble columns, aroma fans, projection, fiber optic lights, and sound sensitive models. Many models offer tactile and remote interactive features so that the multi-sensory environments may be controlled or manipulated by either a teacher or the subject. These  multi-sensory environments are durable and cool to the touch. Additional options include a vibration option, ping pong inserts, storage cabinets and more. As you can see, the Vecta Distraction Station Multi-Sensory Environment may be customized to target the specific needs of an individual or for the larger needs of a group application.

Whether for 'de-stressing', promoting focus, facilitating learning or therapy, the Vecta Distraction Station Multi-Sensory Environment series of products provide a variety of options that allow for tailored configurations to specific needs or applications. For example, the Vecta Distraction Station is ideal where space is at a premium, such as hospitals and nursing homes. It can convert waiting rooms, treatment rooms, and bedrooms into relaxing, distracting and empowering multi-sensory environments full of stimulation, and it is easily transportable from one room to another.

Multi-sensory environments display efficacy in reduction of stress, anxiety, and pain and also can help change behavior, increase focus and attention, plus assist with self esteem issues. Multi-sensory environments have been shown to help with autism, brain injury, challenging behaviors, dementia, developmental disabilities, mental illness, palliative care, pre and post surgery, PTSD, special education, and of course, wellness. Devices such as the Vecta Distraction Station Multi-Sensory Environment allow the latest multi-sensory technology to provide room specific therapeutic controlled sensory input. The Vecta Distraction Station Multi-Sensory Environment can make a great addition to most any therapeutic situations.
 
Debra Bolt, Medical Consumer Writer
and
Hulet Smith, OT
RehabMart Team Leader & CEO