General Guidelines For Weighted Blanket Use
Thank you to the Occupational Therapy Staff at Dual Diagnosis Services of Central West Specialized Developmental Services for supplying the information below.
Use of weighted equipment like blankets, vests etc. can have a calming affect on the nervous system of individuals with sensory processing challenges. While relatively non-invasive, there are important guidelines to consider to ensure user safety and comfort when using this as a therapeutic tool.
1 . The weighted blanket should always be self directed. That is to say that, while the blanket may be offered or placed over or around an individual, the user must have control over it’s use.
2. Do not use a blanket if the user is unable to physically remove it themselves. Do not wrap it around the user so that they are unable to remove their arms from inside.
3. A weighted blanket should never be forced. If the user rejects it, offer it again at a later time, or place it where they can reach it themselves.
4. Never completely cover, or tuck in or around the user's head with blanket (if the user likes to ‘tent’ themselves that is ok, as long as they can be visually observe).
5. A blanket having a weight at or above ~16 lbs is normally suitable for a large teenager or adult, based on their weight. It may not be suitable for a child, or a smaller adult unless under the direct supervision of an occupational therapist. Blanket weight and size should be tailored to each individuals weight and sensory needs.
6. The blanket can be kept in a visible spot so the user can have direct access to it, or kept controlled (if more appropriate for the household) with clear and unconditional access by the user.
7. As a calming tool it is best introduced at the early signs of agitation or escalation. As a sleep aid, it should be made available when the user finds it most beneficial (ie. To help him go to sleep, to stay asleep or both.
DISCLAIMER
In the past few years, there have been a few new weighted blanket makers that are "using" DreamCatcher Weighted Blankets research and formulas in their written material and web sites in an effort to sell their products.
The information on our web site is freely given for all to benefit from. It is however , information that is copyrighted and has been researched and sought after personally by DreamCatcher staff. Other weighted blanket manufacturers that copy directly or have re-written DreamCatcher Weighted Blanket information in their written material have not asked for permission to use either our research, weight formulas or information, against copyright laws.
While we are flattered to be used as a model for their companies, please keep in mind DreamCatcher Weighted Blankets is not affiliated with, nor can we control or recommend products offered by weighted blanket companies that have simply used our research and information to easily promote their products.