You already know this to be true for kids, but did you know that sensory activities for adults can also be effective in helping with stress relief and grounding, especially among those with autism?

Individuals on the spectrum process sensory information in a way that’s different from neurotypicals, and often, these sensory issues pose a challenge and make their day-to-day lives extremely difficult.

What Exactly Are Sensory Issues?

Do you know how Spiderman has his spidey-senses that make him hyper aware of everything around him? Sensory issues in people with autism are like that, except their hypersensitivity to sensory stimuli causes extreme discomfort and distress, especially when it turns into a sensory overload.

Sensory overload happens when a person with autism is bombarded with sensory stimuli that is so much more than what they can process. This can happen to anyone every once in a while, but it’s something that people on the spectrum deal with daily. And yes, the triggers are often things that are unnoticeable to others – the sound of passing vehicles, a scratchy shirt tag, flickering post lights, people standing too close in a bus – all of these can be too much for someone with ASD.

How Sensory Activities for Adults Can Help

Several studies showed that calming sensory activities for adults work wonders in providing relief from anxiety and encouraging positive behavior in people on the spectrum. In particular, the use of weighted vests and blankets showed how they can be used not only to calm down and lower anxiety levels but also to help improve overall behavior. 

Aside from the emotional and mental benefits of adult sensory play, there’s also the improvement in cognitive function to look forward to. Autism activities for adults that address their sensory issues can also support brain function, focus, and memory. Puzzles and fidget toys, for example, help encourage mental sharpness.

What Are the Best Sensory Activities for Autistic Adults?

There are different types of sensory activities for adults, and your choice should depend on the needs of the individual with ASD.

Auditory Sensory Activities

Listening to different sounds can help improve focus and concentration and boost one’s mood, too. The sounds should be a variation of relaxing ones, from nature sounds, white noise machines, and meditative sound bowls, to rhythmic music from different instruments like percussion. Singing and playing simple instruments are also great activities to try. Every once in a while, expose them to sounds that they don’t like with the goal of helping them develop tolerance for them.

Touch-Based Activities

For stress relief, mood regulation, and body awareness, touch-based autism activities for adults are recommended. For these, you can make use of different tools and toys like different fabrics, fidget tools, bubble wraps, weighted vests, slimes, kinetic sand, stress balls, and more. You can also take the DIY approach to tailor the activity to your loved one’s specific needs.  

Another touch-based sensory activity that adults with autism might enjoy is massage therapy. Not only will it be a relaxing experience, but it can also help enhance body awareness. If they’re on the creative side, you should also consider pottery. The texture of the clay can help with desensitizing, and the output will certainly give them a sense of accomplishment.

Scent-Based Activities

If you prefer calming sensory activities for adults, then add scents to the mix. Familiarize yourself with different scents and their effects. For example, lavender is known to help with relaxation, while peppermint and citrus can be energizing. For scent-based activities, you can use essential oils, scented candles, and even perfumes.

Visual Activities

There are lots of visual activities for autistic adults, but we’re just covering a few here. If possible, go to a light show where your loved one can be exposed to different patterns and colors. If that’s too much for them, then start with a more personal activity like mindful coloring. Once they’re ready to go further, try painting. You can make them choose the subject and even the colors they’d use.

Proprioceptive and Vestibular Activities

These are necessary sensory activities for adults that can help improve not only their balance but also their body awareness. Some activities in this category include stretching and yoga, which involve fluid yet intentional movements. 

For vestibular activities, you can take your loved one to a park and let them ride the swing. Or if you have one at home, encourage them to use a rocking chair. These two movements, swinging and rocking, can both help reduce stimulation. 

Consider Setting Up an Adult Sensory Playroom

If you have an extra room in your house, you can transform that into a simple and sensory-friendly room for your loved one with autism. Nothing too fancy. Just set up some cushioned chairs or, better yet, beanbags. Add textural elements like rugs, pillows, and sensory bins. Make sure there are speakers or noise machines in the room that can play soft music or nature sounds, as well as dimmable lights for that truly relaxing atmosphere.

Make Sensory Breaks a Part of Their Daily Routine

It’s important for adults with autism to get even just a few minutes a day to reset their minds. Quick sensory breaks can give them that. These sensory breaks can be as simple as squeezing stress balls while listening to relaxing music or getting a hand massage. If they want something more meditative, perhaps you can make a mini Zen garden for them. Anything that can help them relax and breathe will be good for them.

Adult Sensory Play Matters for Individuals with Autism

Sensory activities are not just for kids. They’re also for adults, especially ones on the spectrum who need to manage sensory issues or require regular mental stimulation. These adult sensory play ideas can also help one’s overall mental and emotional well-being.  Experimenting with the different activities shared here can help you determine which ones work best for your loved one. Of course, you can always consult with Actify ABA to know their recommendations, too.

Actify ABA is a trusted center that provides personalized ABA therapy programs to families and individuals in Maryland. We can be your partner in creating a world where your loved one with ASD thrives. Contact us today to find out how we can help!