Over 90%
Autistic individuals with sensory processing differences
Ben-Sasson et al., 2019 — meta-analysis
5-15%
General population with sensory processing differences
Ahn et al., 2004 — American Journal of Occupational Therapy
Auditory (hypersensitivity)
Most affected sensory domain in autism
Kern et al., 2006 — systematic review
2013 (DSM-5)
Year sensory criteria added to autism diagnosis
American Psychiatric Association
A comprehensive meta-analysis by Ben-Sasson et al. (2019) found that over 90% of autistic individuals exhibit clinically significant sensory processing differences, compared to approximately 5-15% of the general population. The most commonly affected domains are auditory processing (hypersensitivity to noise), tactile processing (aversion to textures or touch), and proprioceptive processing (difficulties with body awareness and movement planning).
Autistic individuals typically show a mixed sensory profile rather than uniform hyper- or hyposensitivity. A child might be hypersensitive to sounds (covering ears in noisy environments) while simultaneously seeking proprioceptive input (crashing into furniture, seeking deep pressure). Understanding the individual's specific sensory profile is essential for effective intervention and accommodation.
The Sensory Profile 2 (Dunn, 2014) is the most widely used assessment tool in Ontario. It maps an individual's responses across four sensory processing patterns: seeking, avoiding, sensitivity, and registration. This profile guides intervention planning and environmental modifications.
Occupational therapy with a sensory integration approach is the primary intervention for sensory processing differences in autism. Ayres Sensory Integration (ASI) is the most researched approach, with moderate evidence supporting its effectiveness for functional outcomes. A 2022 systematic review by Schoen et al. confirmed improvements in individualized goals, sensory reactivity, and motor performance.
Environmental modifications are equally important and often more immediately impactful. These include: noise-reducing headphones for auditory sensitivity, weighted blankets or vests for proprioceptive input, fidget tools for sensory seeking, modified lighting for visual sensitivity, and designated quiet spaces for sensory breaks.
In Ontario, occupational therapy for sensory processing can be accessed through OAP clinical services, school-based OT through school boards, community-based OT clinics (private pay or group benefits), and Children's Treatment Centres across the province. Wait times for publicly funded OT vary from 6 to 24 months depending on region.
Ben-Sasson, A. et al.
Update of a Meta-Analysis of Sensory Symptoms in ASD. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 2019; 49(4):1621-1636
Schoen, S.A. et al.
Systematic Review of Ayres Sensory Integration Intervention for Children with Autism. Autism Research, 2022; 12(1):6-19
Commitment to Accuracy: Our data is verified against official government reports (FAO, MCCSS), peer-reviewed scientific literature, and accessible public records. Last updated: March 24, 2026.
Verified Facts
Early Start Denver Model (ESDM) delivered to children aged 18–30 months produced significant gains in IQ, adaptive behaviour, and autism severity — some children no longer met diagnostic criteria at follow-up
Cochrane systematic review finds evidence that early intensive behavioural intervention (EIBI) may produce positive effects on adaptive behaviour and communication for young children with ASD (low certainty of evidence)
WHO recommends accessible, community-based early interventions for children with autism — timely evidence-based psychosocial interventions improve communication and social engagement
1 in 50, According to the 2019 Canadian Health Survey on Children and Youth, about children and youth aged 1 to 17 in Canada had an autism diagnosis
88,175, children are registered in the Ontario Autism Program