Weighted Vests
Weighted vests appear to positively impact attention . However, users typically habituate after 30 to 45 minutes. Then the benefits wear off. I recommend using it for short periods throughout the day, taking data on whether the person’s maladaptive behaviors decrease or attention and tolerance to tasks increases. If the user likes the vest, it may be beneficial to pair it up with a time-limited , less preferred, table top activity that the client may associate with wearing the vest- such as when a student is writing ….
Weighted vests may be purchased through therapy and special education companies. The vest shown above was sold for holding fishing tackle. I filled the pockets with bags of sand.
Compression Vests
Compression vests may be worn for long periods of time- as tolerated. The client shown in the photo is wearing my life preserver vest which happens to be tight on her- thus providing a squeezing sensation that she finds calming. A variety of compression clothing are sold commercially as well as through therapy and special education catalogs.
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