Study (2021): Effectiveness of therapy blankets on children with ADHD

Sleep disorders are common in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Although pharmacological treatment has increased significantly, parents often prefer non-pharmacological measures. There is limited research on experiences with weighted Blankets and their effect on improving sleep. 

The aim of this study was to investigate parents' experiences with weighted Blankets for children with ADHD and sleep problems, as well as the effects on their children's sleep. Interviews were conducted with a targeted sample of 24 parents of children with ADHD and sleep problems after they had participated in a 16-week sleep intervention with weighted Blankets. The parents reported that the children who slept with weighted Blankets (1) achieved satisfactory sleep, including improved sleep onset latency, improved sleep continuity, and an improved sleep routine; (2) achieved overall well-being, including improved relaxation and reduced anxiety; and (3) managed daily life, including improved balance in life, improved family functioning, and improved participation in school and leisure activities. 

This study reveals new aspects of the effects of improved sleep in children with ADHD. The results contribute to understanding the potential positive impacts of an intervention with weighted Blankets, which are crucial for clinical practice to improve sleep, well-being, and daily life of children with ADHD and their families.

About the study

Source: 

Larsson, I., Aili, K., Nygren, J. M., Jarbin, H., & Svedberg, P. (2021). Parents' Experiences of Weighted Blankets' Impact on Children with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Sleep Problems-A Qualitative Study. International journal of environmental research and public health, 18(24), 12959. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182412959