As my dementia has progressed my level of anxiety has increased as well. A few years ago nothing bothered me, I worried about little. But now, a trip to the grocery store can become a nightmare for me in short order. Sitting at a red light through it’s normal cycle will often seem like an hour or longer to me and I become very impatient. Kids, which I have always loved and sought out, making noise in a restaurant absolutely send me howling now. I’m shaking so that I can’t hold a cup of coffee without spilling it and I become very irritated and short tempered.
It was with in mind that Karen bought me a weighted blanket a few days ago. We had been looking at them for some time but couldn’t convince ourselves they were worth it but she decided at my current level of anxiety it was more than worth a try. Generally speaking, the theory behind the blanket is the weight provides some security and comfort thus calming the person with anxiety. According to healthline.com, “Weighted blankets help ground your body during sleep by pushing it downwards. This process, known as “earthing” or “grounding,” may have a deeply calming effect. The blankets also simulate deep pressure touch (DPT), a type of therapy that uses firm, hands-on pressure to reduce chronic stress and high levels of anxiety.” The article can be found at healthline.com/health/weigh....
As I’ve only had the blanket for a few days my data points on it are limited but to this point I would rate it a roaring success. I not only use it during sleep but I keep it on me while in my recliner during the day. The weight is soothing, It reminds me of sleeping under a pile of heavy “covers” as a child. It was cold in the winter, our house wasn’t insulated well, and the bedroom reflected that cold. The remedy was several layers of quilts and blankets. So many it was almost difficult to turn. And it was snug and secure. Something you looked forward to climbing into at the end of a long day. You just knew you were going to be safe and secure. Same with the weighted blanket. I have had a higher feeling of calm and relaxation since I started using it.
For those of you caring for a LO that has high anxiety levels I would highly recommend giving this assistive device a go. It quite possibly might bring them, and therefore you, some contentment, some calm, some relief. At worst, if it doesn’t, you’ll have a nice blanket.
Enjoy your day.
Randy
