NDIS Note for Weighted Blankets
The claim that weighted blankets may cause harm fails to account for the substantial evidence supporting their safety and therapeutic benefits when used correctly. Weighted blankets, when tailored to an individual’s needs and used in accordance with guidelines, offer profound advantages for mental health, sensory regulation, and sleep improvement.
All our weighted blankets are designed to strict safety standards, adhering to the widely recognized recommendation that they weigh between 5-10% of the user’s body weight. This ensures safe and effective use by distributing weight evenly, thereby minimizing risks. Our products are extensively utilized by Australian Health Departments, Youth Justice, and Correctional Services, institutions known for their rigorous safety and efficacy assessments.
Furthermore, emerging research reinforces the benefits of weighted blankets. A study from Flinders University, published in October 2024, highlights how weighted blankets can significantly improve sleep quality. The study found that participants using weighted blankets reported enhanced sleep efficiency, with fewer disturbances during the night, contributing to overall well-beingly, research summarized by the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Journal (ANMJ) demonstrates that weighted blankets can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, particularly in individuals experiencing sensory processing disorders, insomnia, or stress . These lign with clinical observations from therapists and healthcare professionals, underscoring the role of weighted blankets as a safe and effective therapeutic tool.
The assertion that weighted blankets may cause harm generally stems from cases of misuse, such as exceeding weight recommendations or using blankets with contraindicated individuals, such as those with respiratory or mobility impairments. These risks are mitigated through proper education, adherence to guidelines, and professional oversight.
Weighted blankets are not only safe but also highly beneficial for individuals with autism, ADHD, sensory challenges, and sleep disorders. Excluding them categorically from funding fails to account for the extensive evidence supporting their therapeutic value. Instead, a more appropriate approach would involve case-by-case assessments to ensure they are provided to those who can safely benefit from their use.
In conclusion, weighted blankets are backed by strong research and widespread professional endorsement. We urge NDIS to consider the extensive safeguards and evidence supporting their use, rather than excluding a valuable tool that enhances quality of life for many individuals.
Reference for studies that have been undertaken by Australian based health organisations are as follows;
https://news.flinders.edu.au/blog/2024/10/18/improving-sleep-with-weighted-blankets
https://anmj.org.au/weighted-blankets-can-help-improve-sleep-finds-study
