La Trobe University has received over $780,000 from the Federal Government’s Medical Research Future Fund to explore the effects of sensory vests on anxiety in autistic children. Autistic children are reported to experience anxiety at rates six times higher than their non-autistic peers. Many Australian families are using funding from the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to acquire sensory garments aimed at reducing anxiety in these children.
Sensory vests are close-fitting garments made from stretch fabric, designed to provide continuous sensory input during daily activities, including sleep. La Trobe University has partnered with JettProof, a clothing manufacturer, for a study assessing the effectiveness of its sensory vests. A pilot study conducted in 2023 with six autistic children indicated that wearing these vests could positively impact mood, sleep, and self-regulation.
The upcoming two-year study, led by Professor Alison Lane from La Trobe’s Olga Tennison Autism Research Centre, will involve a larger group of children wearing JettProof sensory vests over a more extended period. This study aims to not only evaluate this specific product but also to examine the broader implications of sensory garments for autistic children.
Michelle Ebbin, founder of JettProof, initially developed sensory vests for her son, Jett, who, at three years old, was non-verbal and experienced up to 14 meltdowns daily. After using the vests, she reports that his meltdowns ceased entirely. Ebbin emphasizes the importance of maintaining a calm sensory system for autistic children, as it aids in their information processing and learning.
Autistic children often face additional challenges, including poor physical health, social anxiety, sleep disturbances, low mood, and difficulties in school and recreational activities. Professor Lane highlighted the need for more evidence on sensory garments to help healthcare providers formulate recommendations based on solid research.
Families are actively seeking reliable and affordable solutions for managing anxiety in autistic children. This research project presents an opportunity to formally evaluate the anecdotal claims surrounding sensory vests.
The trial will enroll 140 children aged 8 to 12 years from Melbourne and Perth, each wearing a sensory vest for a three-month period. The study will be conducted in collaboration with The Kids Research Institute Australia, with Dr. Gail Alvares leading the Perth site of the clinical trial. Dr. Alvares stressed the importance of providing families with access to high-quality, evidence-based solutions, stating that this trial represents an unprecedented opportunity for researchers to gather scientific evidence on the impact of sensory vests on anxiety and sleep.
La Trobe’s Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Industry Engagement, Professor Chris Pakes, noted that this project exemplifies research that benefits the community and contributes to positive changes for autistic children and their families. Recruitment for participating families is expected to open in the latter half of 2025.
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