The influence of the Snoezelen method on postural stability and the risk of falls in people with paranoid schizophrenia.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to describe the changes in the postural stabilisation, quality of life, cognitive functions and behaviour of patients with paranoid schizophrenia who have undergone the Snoezelen therapy and the auctorial sensorimotor exercise program.

Methods: The study was conducted on 55 patients aged 55 to 75 years. Group S underwent therapy in the Snoezelen room for nine weeks, group ES underwent the Snoezelen therapy and were also subjected to auctorial sensorimotor exercise programme, and group C were not given any therapeutic intervention. The Biosway portable balance system, the Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti Test and the Timed Up & Go Test were used to evaluate the effects of the therapy.

Results: In group ES, statistically significant changes were observed in all tested indicators; in group S such changes were observed in the Limit of Stability test, Tinetti Test and TUG test; while in group C, no statistically significant changes were found.

Conclusions: The Snoezelen therapy had a significant impact on changes in postural control rations and a reduced risk of falls. The auctorial sensorimotor exercise programme increased the impact of the Snoezelen room on postural stability measured using the Biosway platform and the risk of falls assessed using the TUG test.