According to the new guidelines, adults with these diagnoses and severe sleep problems should be offered weighted blankets if other measures have not been sufficiently effective.
The National Board of Health and Welfare recently published updated Swedish national guidelines for ADHD and autism. The latest version, released on March 19, 2024, contains thirteen new recommendations that were developed in consultation with over 500 professionals. These updated guidelines focus specifically on two key areas: cognitive support and the use of weighted blankets to manage sleep problems. Read the full guidelines here.
Cognitive support is a key factor that is now emphasized for the first time in the guidelines. This involves offering practical help with organizing daily tasks, managing time, and providing reminders to promote independence and engagement for people with ADHD or autism. This support can be particularly valuable for children and can help prevent problems later in life.
Regarding the use of weighted blankets, there has been discussion about their effectiveness in improving sleep in people with ADHD or autism. According to the new guidelines, adults with these diagnoses and severe sleep problems should be offered weighted blankets if other measures have not been sufficiently effective. Particularly for people with autism, where sleep difficulties can be more challenging, the use of weighted blankets is prioritized as a potential solution to promote better sleep quality.
Research on the use of weighted blankets for children with ADHD or autism is still ongoing, and the National Board of Health and Welfare recommends their use based on regular evaluations. In addition, the guidelines suggest the use of weighted blankets for older children with severe sleep problems if other treatment methods have been insufficient. The latest research indicates that weighted blankets may be beneficial for children with ADHD and sleep problems. Research from Halmstad University, using sleep monitors, has shown that Novista’s soft weighted blankets improve sleep in children with ADHD.
In summary, the updated guidelines emphasize the importance of offering a wide range of support measures for people with ADHD or autism. By including cognitive support and considering the use of weighted blankets as part of the treatment plan, the goal is to improve quality of life and make daily life easier for these individuals and their loved ones.
See Novista’s weighted blankets here.
ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and autism are common diagnoses that affect both children and adults worldwide. The causes of these conditions are complex and involve a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences. Globally, it is estimated that between 5 and 7 percent of children and 3 percent of adults have ADHD, while autism affects 1 to 2 percent of the population.
