How Protac Sensory Products Help People with Autism
Individuals with autism often experience unique sensory challenges that can affect their daily lives such as over-stimulation (hypersensitivity) or under-stimulation (hyposensitivity).
Protac® sensory products play a vital role in supporting those with autism and other conditions that include sensory sensitivity. These products provide calming and stimulating sensory input which helps autistic individuals regulate their emotions, improve focus and more.
This diverse collection of products ranges from weighted blankets to MyFit® weighted vests, Protac Sensit® chairs, and much more.
Sensory Sensitivity Explained
According to recent studies by the NHS, Lifelong and persistent sensory sensitivities are diagnostic of autism. There are three types of sensory sensitivities that an individual with autism will experience:
Hypersensitivity
Hypersensitivity is an extreme over-reactivity to sensory input. According to Autism Speaks, Sensory triggers can involve sensitivity to light such as LED or fluorescent light and certain smells, textures and tastes. Overwhelming environments can result in sensory avoidance which manifests in the following behaviour:
- Pulling away from physical touch
- Covering ears to avoid noises and unpredictable sounds
- Avoiding certain kinds of clothing
Sensory-seeking
Sensory-seeking is a behaviour associated with hyposensitive individuals which involve an unusual interest in aspects of the sensory environment. For more information, read more in the NHS England survey.
Hyposensitivity
In contrast to hypersensitivity, hyposensitivity is extreme under-reactivity to sensory input. Those with this type of sensory condition tend to seek out more sensory information from the world around them. They commonly do not respond to sensations such as pain, touch, smell and sound.
Those with this condition benefit from sensory equipment, toys, and furniture as it is part of an introduction to their senses and development.
Our senses help us guide our way through the world therefore, we must understand what our human senses are and how they work in order to keep ourselves safe and aware.
You can read more about supporting sensory processing needs from Cumbria City Council’s guide.
What are the effects of Sensory Sensitivity in public environments?
High levels of sensory sensitivity can impair an individual throughout the day, making it very hard to stay calm and carry out day-to-day activities.
They can become either over or understimulated by their senses, which can cause stress, anxiety, and possibly physical pain. These effects can cause withdrawal, distressed behaviour or meltdowns.
Locations like public transport areas, clinical settings, schools or shopping centres can quickly become inaccessible to autistic individuals as the harsh lights, strong smells, and increase in noise levels can make for an incredibly overwhelming experience.
Although we cannot always control our surroundings, there are ways to soothe anxieties within triggering environments. Sensory products are effective tools that can help soothe hyposensitive and hypersensitive autistic people as well as those with other sensory sensitivities like dementia patients.
Benefits of Protac Sensory Products
Sensory products such as Protac are excellent tools for those with autism and other sensory sensitivities such as dementia. Protac sensory products have several positive effects such as:
Calming and Soothing Effects
Sensory tools like weighted blankets or Protac products can reduce anxiety, stress, and overstimulation, leading to better emotional regulation
Comfort and Better Sleep
Weighted blankets or calming toys can promote relaxation, helping individuals fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply.
Improved Focus and Attention
They help children and adults with autism concentrate on tasks, whether it's in a classroom or at home.
Enhanced Motor Skills and Coordination
Sensory products can promote fine and gross motor skills, balance, and body awareness through activities that engage the senses.
5 Protac Sensory Products for Autism
Protac sensory products have been designed especially for children and adults impacted by mental and physical unrest. We recommend the following Protac Sensory products for autism.
The SensCircle is a multi-function cushion which aids with a range of activities as well as promoting relaxation and good posture.
The Protac SenSit® is a sense-stimulating easy chair designed especially for children and adults impacted by mental and physical unrest. The Sensit® fits seamlessly in many environments such as care homes, activity centres, psychiatric centres, hospitals and supported housing.
The Protac MyFit® sense-stimulating vest is designed for young people and adults affected by physical unrest, overstimualtion and hyperactivity. While it is beneficial for patients with neurological conditions, it can also soothe those with sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and issues with pain.
The Protac Ball Cushion™ (standard is an expertly designed and constructed seat cushion which stimulates the senses and is the ideal solution for children or adults who find it difficult to sit still and concentrate. The Protac Ball Cushion™ can also alleviate balance problems, learning disabilities, hyperactivity, low muscle tone, physical unrest and hyperactivity.
The Protac Ball Blanket™ is a widely recognised aid for the alleviation and relief of sleep disorders and psychological and motor unrest among children, adults, and the elderly.
Learn more about Protac's best sensory products over the last 30 years in our latest article.
Sensory Products for Autism FAQs
Protac® weighted blankets are designed using unique sensory balls, which provide a more dynamic and evenly distributed sensory experience compared to traditional weighted blankets. The structure of Protac® blankets enhances tactile stimulation and offers a more effective calming experience by engaging multiple sensory points.
