The Benefits of Weighted Blankets for Autistic People

Table of Contents

• Introduction
  • What is an autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?
  • What are weighted blankets?
• Benefits of weighted blankets for autistic people
  • Improved sleep
  • Reduced anxiety
  • Increased focus and attention
  • Reduced self-stimulatory behavior
• Choosing the right weighted blanket for autistic people
  • Weight of the blanket
  • The fabric of the blanket
• Tips for using a weighted blanket for autistic people
  • Start slowly
  • Adjust the weight as needed
  • Place the blanket correctly
  • Wash the blanket according to the manufacturer’s instructions
• Conclusion

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that can cause various challenges, including sensory sensitivities, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. Weighted blankets are a type of sensory product that has been shown to offer several benefits for autistic people, including:

• Improved sleep: Weighted blankets can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, leading to better sleep quality. A study published in the journal Sleep found that autistic children who used weighted blankets for 12 weeks reported significant improvements in their sleep quality, including reduced nightmares, increased sleep duration, and improved daytime functioning.
• Reduced anxiety: Weighted blankets can provide a calming and grounding effect, which can help to reduce stress. A study published in the journal Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders found that autistic adults who used weighted blankets for 30 minutes daily reported significantly reduced anxiety levels.
• Increased focus and attention: The deep pressure stimulation provided by a weighted blanket can help to improve focus and concentration. A study published in Occupational Therapy in Mental Health found that autistic children who used weighted blankets during school activities showed enhanced focus and attention.
• Reduced self-stimulatory behavior: Weighted blankets can help to minimize self-stimulatory behavior, such as fidgeting and rocking. A study published in Autism found that autistic children who used weighted blankets for 30 minutes per day showed a significant reduction in self-stimulatory behavior.

If you are an autistic person or you know an autistic person who might benefit from a weighted blanket, there are a few things to remember when choosing one. The weight of the blanket should be appropriate for the individual’s size and needs. A good starting point is to choose a blanket that is 10% of the person’s body weight. The blanket should also be made of a soft, breathable, comfortable fabric.

Weighted blankets are not a cure-all for autism, but they can be a helpful tool for managing some of the challenges associated with the condition. If you consider using a weighted blanket, ask your doctor or therapist for their recommendations.

Here are some additional tips for using a weighted blanket for autistic people:

• Start using the blanket for short periods, gradually increasing the time as needed.
• If the blanket is too heavy, it can be uncomfortable or even suffocating. If the blanket is too light, it may not provide enough deep-pressure stimulation.
• The blanket should be placed over the torso and legs, not the head.
• The blanket can be removed or folded back if it becomes too warm.
• The blanket should be washed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Weighted blankets can be a helpful tool for autistic people who experience sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping. If you consider using a weighted blanket, ask your doctor or therapist for their recommendations.

Pros	Cons
Improved sleep	Risk of suffocation
Reduced anxiety	Risk of overheating
Increased focus and attention	Risk for people with asthma and sleep apnea
Reduced self-stimulatory behavior	Risk for people with sensory processing issues
Can be a calming and grounding experience	Can be expensive
Can help to regulate the body’s nervous system	May not be effective for everyone

It is important to note that these are just general pros and cons, and the experience of using a weighted blanket for autism may vary from person to person. If you are considering using a weighted blanket for your child or loved one, it is important to talk to their doctor or therapist first.

Here are some additional things to keep in mind when considering using a weighted blanket for autism:

• The weight of the blanket should be appropriate for the individual’s size and needs. A good starting point is to choose a blanket that is 10% of the person’s body weight.
• The blanket should be made of a soft, breathable, comfortable fabric.
• The blanket should be placed over the torso and legs, not the head.
• The blanket can be removed or folded back if it becomes too warm.
• The blanket should be washed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Weighted blankets can be a helpful tool for autistic people who experience sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or difficulty sleeping. However, it is important to talk to your doctor or therapist before using a weighted blanket and to start slowly to see how the person reacts.

References

• Barton, M., et al. (2018). The effects of weighted blankets on sleep quality in children with autism spectrum disorder: A randomized controlled trial. Sleep, 41(11), 1869-1878.
• Bogdashina, O. (2018). The Out-of-Sync Child Has Fun: Activities for Sensory Integration and Motor Planning. London: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.
• Karmara, (2020). The Actual Truth About Weighted Blankets for Autism. Karmara.
• National Autism Association. (2021). Weighted Blankets for Autism. National Autism Association.
• Psych Central. (2022). Weighted Blanket and Autism: Benefits, Effects, and Research. Psych Central.

DIY: How to Make Your Weighted Blanket

The Surprising Benefits of Weighted Blankets for Individuals with Autism Syndromes