Calm Spaces Emerge to Assist Neurodivergent Individuals

Public spaces are increasingly adapting to meet the needs of neurodivergent individuals, who often face challenges in overstimulating environments. For parents like Janice Tay, navigating everyday settings has required significant adjustments. Her son, Emmanuel, diagnosed with several neurodevelopmental conditions, including autism and ADHD, often needs quiet areas to manage his emotions when faced with overwhelming stimuli in places like shopping malls.

Ms Tay has taught her son to find refuge in toilet cubicles during stressful moments, a strategy that presents its own challenges. Public restrooms can become stress-inducing when other patrons grow impatient, particularly in male toilets where stalls are limited. Accessible toilets are not always viable either, as Emmanuel’s needs may not be readily apparent, leading to discomfort among other users when he takes longer than expected.

The experience of Ms Tay resonates with many neurodivergent individuals and their families. For instance, a woman identified as Karen described grocery trips as a source of distress. Diagnosed with Level 1 autism in 2022, she finds that the harsh lighting and crowded aisles of supermarkets can quickly become overwhelming. “I can hardly spend more than 10 minutes in the supermarket,” she shared, highlighting how sensory overload can force individuals to abandon their shopping.

As awareness of neurodivergence grows, more public spaces are implementing features designed to alleviate sensory overload. Changi Airport recently introduced its first sensory-friendly facility in Terminal 2, aimed at supporting neurodivergent travelers. According to Eileen Oh, general manager of airport operations services at Changi Airport Group, the airport environment can be intimidating for neurodivergent individuals. Feedback indicated that the fear of public judgment can deter families from traveling.

The newly established calm room features various zones, including acoustically dampened private areas with adjustable lighting and padded surfaces. The positive response so far indicates that families feel more at ease, knowing they have a space to decompress if needed. “Some travelers noted that simply knowing the Calm Room exists gave them reassurance,” Ms Oh said.

Elsewhere in Singapore, the National Gallery Singapore introduced its calm room in 2022, co-developed with neurodivergent artists. Deputy Director of Access and Community Alicia Teng noted that the gallery recognized the need for a sensory respite space. Previously, staff would convert seminar rooms to accommodate individuals experiencing sensory overload. The calm room includes adjustable lighting, ambient soundscapes, and sensory kits to provide grounding input.

Public libraries, traditionally considered quiet spaces, are also rethinking their environments. The Punggol Regional Library now boasts a waiting area equipped with sensory aids and a private space for individuals seeking relief. Additionally, the National Parks Board is developing therapeutic gardens throughout Singapore, aiming to enhance community recreational needs, particularly for neurodivergent individuals.

Corporate environments are also taking steps to create supportive spaces. EY, an accounting firm, has established neurodivergent-friendly spaces in response to employee feedback for more varied work environments. These rooms include dimmable lighting and sound-absorbing walls, catering to diverse sensory preferences.

The necessity for such spaces stems from the unique challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals. Ms Choo Kah Ying, a copy editor whose son has profound autism, pointed out that unpredictable environments, such as ongoing construction, can exacerbate anxiety. The “stacking effect” of multiple sensory stimuli can overwhelm individuals, necessitating proactive strategies to avoid distress.

Since the opening of Changi Airport’s calm room, Ms Tay has found it beneficial for Emmanuel, who often feels anxious before flights. The family arrives early to allow him to adapt. Organizations advocating for neurodivergent individuals emphasize that environmental design plays a critical role in cognitive regulation. Hazleen Ahmad, deputy chief executive officer of the Institute of Neurodiversity, noted that lighting, acoustics, and spatial layouts can either calm or stress the nervous system.

Inclusive design principles not only benefit neurodivergent individuals but also enhance experiences for everyone. The World Health Organization has identified urban stress as a significant public health concern, linking prolonged sensory overload to various negative outcomes, including reduced productivity. Simple design modifications can greatly improve experiences in public venues.

As Singapore continues to develop supportive environments, there is widespread agreement that more can be done. Experts stress the importance of integrating neurodivergent-inclusive features from the design stage of public spaces. Clear communication about available facilities is essential for ensuring that neurodivergent individuals and their caregivers can access necessary resources.

The call for consistency in inclusive design remains strong. While some spaces have successfully implemented supportive features, many remain limited to specific projects or sectors. Advocates suggest treating brain health as critical infrastructure, akin to physical accessibility, to ensure that neuroinclusive design principles are embedded across all public environments.

In conclusion, as society becomes more attuned to the needs of neurodivergent individuals, the integration of calm spaces and sensory-friendly features into everyday environments will be pivotal in fostering inclusivity. Such changes not only improve the quality of life for neurodivergent individuals but also create a more accommodating and enjoyable environment for all.