Brightening the lives of people with autism.

Laurie Hopkins, M.S., OTR/L

Compression and or weighted vests are a key aspect of many sensory diets that are used with students on the spectrum. However, at this time of year it is important to take into account the rising temperatures outside and make adjustments so that students can continue to receive the highly organizing sensory input that their vests provide during the cooler months. We recommend wearing layers, so that a comfortable option is always “at hand”. Usually at this time of year a polo shirt or t-shirt is adequate when donning the vest. If such a shirt is layered under a sweatshirt or sweater, then the outer layer can be easily removed to ensure a student’s comfort while wearing the vest as part of their sensory diet throughout the school day.

Remember to smooth the shirt under the vest, so that ridges or bumps are not being pressed into the student’s torso or shoulder girdle. We routinely take the vests off for outside play time, which is another measure to prevent overheating. Likewise, be sure to remember that vests should never be left near a hot surface or in direct sunlight, as this negatively impacts on the neoprene fabric. In general it is wonderful for students to drink water throughout the day and this is even more essential in the warmer weather.

Although the benefits that come from wearing the vests are long term, they are often “invisible”. It is essential to keep in mind the therapeutic value of sustained deep pressure touch to the central nervous
system, for those with sensory processing deficits. The vests are silently providing this form of ongoing sensation whenever they are being worn. It may be helpful to keep this in mind as a way of finding creative solutions for continuing to wear compression vests as the many delights of spring blossom and blow all about us.