Adult Sensory Profile (AASP) — what it measures & how OTs use it
A quick, standardized questionnaire that helps an occupational therapist (OT) describe your sensory processing patterns—not a diagnosis, but a way to plan supports that fit your day.
What it is
The Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile (often shortened to Adult Sensory Profile or AASP) is a norm‑referenced, self‑report questionnaire. You rate how often everyday sensory experiences happen to you (e.g., noticing tags, avoiding bright lights, seeking movement). An OT scores your responses to describe patterns of processing and suggests practical supports.
- Not a diagnosis. It describes patterns; it does not confirm or rule out conditions.
- Used with other tools. OTs combine it with an interview, observation, and goal setting.
- Time: about 10–15 minutes to complete; scoring/interpretation by a clinician.
What it measures (patterns you might notice)
| Pattern | You might notice… | How an OT may use the info |
|---|---|---|
| Seeking | Preferring extra input (movement, touch, sound) to feel engaged | Build in predictable input (movement breaks, textured grips) so seeking is purposeful, not disruptive |
| Avoiding | Actively reducing input (dimmer lights, quiet corners, scent‑free) | Create escape valves (quiet rooms, lighting controls) and plan etiquette/scripts for shared spaces |
| Sensitivity | Noticing stimuli quickly (glare, clatter, tags) and tiring faster | Reduce triggers at the source; add buffers (white noise, soft textures), and pacing strategies |
| Registration | Missing subtle cues; needing stronger or clearer signals | Use salient cues (timers, bold labels, heavier tools) and body awareness prompts |
How OTs use the AASP
- Screen & plan: clarify which environments and tasks are easier/harder; align goals with your day (work, home, commute).
- Match supports: choose low‑effort tweaks (lighting, seating, sound) and 1–2 portable tools you’ll actually use.
- Track change: revisit patterns after trialing supports; adjust the plan.
Tip: Bring examples of real challenges (e.g., “3 PM open‑office slump,” “grocery store glare”). Your OT can map these to sensory systems and suggest specific changes.
Scores & interpretation (in plain language)
Results are reported using norms (comparison to a reference group) and grouped into ranges like “similar to most people,” “more than most people,” or “less than most people.” An OT translates those ranges into everyday recommendations. Context matters: a “more than” score can be a strength in one job and a stressor in another.
- Avoid self‑diagnosing. Use results to experiment with environment and routines, not to label yourself.
- Re‑test? Most adults don’t need frequent retesting; revisit if your job, health, or routines change a lot.
When to consider it — and when to pause
- Consider: persistent overwhelm at work/school, trouble with crowds/glare/noise, or difficulty sustaining focus without movement.
- Pause: if acute medical or mental‑health issues are primary; stabilize those first with your care team.
Want a low‑stakes start? Try our Adult Sensory Self‑Check to notice patterns before you book with an OT.
Practical next steps
- Skim the Overload first‑aid plan (2‑minute reset).
- Set up a small sensory room/quiet corner or under‑desk rocker for predictable input.
- Try compact pressure tools like weighted lap pads during seated tasks.
- Read our SPD in Adults explainer to understand terminology used in evaluations.
Information only — not medical or occupational‑health advice.