An Evidence-based Practice Project to Improve Sleep for Individuals with Autism

Abstract

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Autism and Developmental Disabilities Monitoring (2023), autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is diagnosed in approximately 1 in 36 children. Common signs of ASD are difficulties with social interaction and communication, repetitive behaviors, delayed cognitive skills, and unusual sleep habits (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023). Sleep disorders are present in 80% of autistic children and 50% of autistic adults (Lane et al., 2022). Common sleep issues reported are prolonged sleep latency, reduced duration of sleep, and waking during sleep (Lane et al., 2022). These common sleep issues have been associated with an increase in physical aggression, inattention, oppositional behavior, tantrums, self-injury, and mood variability in the ASD population (Seo, 2021). Weighted devices such as weighted blankets, compression t-shirts, and garments are becoming a popular discussion for improving sleep for individuals with ASD. In theory, weighted devices such as weighted blankets create a deep pressure sensation that decreases one’s physiologic level of stress and arousal, potentially improveing sleep quality (Bolic Baric et al., 2021). Despite the increasing popularity of weighted devices, it remains unclear how effective these weighted devices are in reducing sleep disturbances for individuals with ASD.