Adapting sensory integration theory terminology into Estonian based on the assessment tools Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration, Sensory Profile 2, and Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile

Sensory integration theory elucidates the relationship between the human nervous system’s capacity to process and integrate sensory sensations and behaviour. The Estonian setting required the adaptation of trustworthy evaluation instruments and terminology in order to deliver evidence-based sensory integration interventions. The objective of the research was to define Estonian sensory integration terminology derived from adaptations of the Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration, Sensory Profile 2, and Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile tests, thereby establishing a theoretical foundation for professional sensory integration interventions in occupational therapy services. The research was conducted as a multiphase study. The selection of key terms from all the assessment tools was determined by the adaptation process of the aforementioned tests. Functional outcomes were prioritised over literal equivalence in the formulation of Estonian terms. The research group developed Estonian terms in accordance with the record structure as a component of the occupational therapy term foundation, utilising the Estonian terminology database Ekilex. Phrased terms were chosen based on their overlap and frequency of occurrence in the assessment tools as well as the research group’s experiences with terms that are specific but presently used with ambiguity. 48 prevalent terms with examples were incorporated into Ekilex and are publicly available as a result of the adaptation process of the Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration, Sensory Profile 2, and Adolescent/Adult Sensory Profile. The adaptation of the tests provided the possibility of establishing the basis for a functional and professional sensory integration theory terminology in Estonian.