Weighted Blankets
According to a medical review by Nathan Greene, PsyD. at Psychcentral.com, for some autistic people, weighted blankets can provide sleep support or anxiety relief.
The warm pressure of a caring embrace is often calming and comforting. While some of the relief you feel may come from knowing you’re cared for, the physical act of being held can be rewarding on its own.
If you have autism and experience sensory overload, a weighted blanket may be a practical choice to provide constant, calming pressure through the night.
In a separate article written by Mara Kenyon, MS, OTR/L at NAPA (Neurological and Physical Abilitation) Center, describes the use and benefits of a weighted blanket for a child with Autism.
Weighted Vests
A study conducted by the American Journal of Occupational Therapy, examined the effectiveness of using weighted vests for improving attention, impulse control, and on-task behavior in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). That study concluded that participants did show significant improvement in inattention, speed of processing and responding, consistency of executive management, and three of four on-task behaviors, including off task, out of seat, and fidgets.
An article written by Courtney Shea, Courtney Shea, OTR/L, at the NAPA describes the benefits of using weighted vests including tips and guidelines.