Just my personal experience, obviously not medical advice since we don't give that here.
I was wandering through Walmart recently and saw a weighted blanket for around $40. I've heard all about them and while I don't have sensory disorders (that I know of), I know that since I went to night shift over two years ago I have had trouble sleeping during the day. I have no trouble falling asleep, (anywhere, any time) but I would wake up every hour or two and sometimes be up for hours in between short naps. I have not been willing to invest $100+ dollars for the ones on the internet, but $40 seemed worth a try.
Life changing! I've read some articles that say it's because the weight is making my body produce more serotonin or melatonin-like chemicals. Whatever it is, I am now getting a solid 5-6 hours some days which is awesome. I don't know whether I'll be able to use it when summer comes back around because it will for sure be a little warm, but sometimes I'm okay with my "thermometer foot" hanging out from under the covers.
I have no personal gain in posting, not really meant as an advertisement, but from one night shifter trying to get through life, to any others that are struggling, I hope this might help you. I've recommended it to all my coworkers and a couple have had similar positive results, but another one didn't really care for it. People that sleep with dogs seem to like it better, maybe since we're used to be smothered by our dogs. ? Hope this might help someone else.
thanksforthedonuts, I have wondered about dementia units and whether it would be considered safe and appropriate. I think it would be up to the facility, although if I had a loved one there as a patient, I might try supplying one to see if it helps them. As long as it was the kind with a washable cover.
I completely agree, it as to be washable!
So funny, I came back to this page and now I have an add running for cooling blankets ? they must exist then!
No weighted blanket for me. I decided to do nights only instead of the days, nights, days, nights and repeat circus. I had done only nights for a few years previously as we had a dog who was IDDM, and my hubby worked away - so I could manage her glucs, insulin and meals better. Then did straight nights a few years later- pretty much until I retired. I found it easier to just stay in the night shift mode even on days off. Granted by this time our son was away at University, and hubby still worked away a lot. So it was quite easy. I always was a night owl anyway - even on days off. The issue right now is that since I retired, I want to be like “normal” people and sleep at night and be up during the day. I’m getting there slowly!
I have been using a weighted blanket for over a year now (even bought a 15lb twin sized one that I travel with along with a letter from my doctor stating I need the blanket for the treatment of insomnia). Two things I would recommend if you are interested in purchasing one of these blankets are 1) they are filled with glass beads rather than plastic beads (which often contain lead) & 2) make sure the blanket & separate duvet cover are made from bamboo cloth material - bamboo keeps you warm in the winter & cool in the summer. Also having a bamboo cloth material lower sheet/fitted sheet helps with maintaining your body temp.
Thanksforthedonuts, MSN, APRN
282 Posts
I completely agree, it as to be washable!
So funny, I came back to this page and now I have an add running for cooling blankets ? they must exist then!