Forecasters are issuing extreme heat warnings, and we at Journey Therapy Center would like to offer a few tips to help keep everyone safe and as comfortable as possible on these hot days.
When temperatures soar and humidity rises, it’s more than just uncomfortable; it can become dangerous. Heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion and heat stroke can affect anyone, but certain groups, including people on the autism spectrum, may face added challenges during extreme weather.
High temperatures, especially when paired with high humidity, reduce the body’s ability to cool itself through sweat. This can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion (symptoms: fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea), or heat stroke (a medical emergency, with symptoms that may include confusion, high body temp, and loss of consciousness).
People on the autism spectrum may not always recognize or communicate symptoms clearly, and sensory processing challenges can make heat and clothing uncomfortable or overwhelming.
Here are a few tips to stay cool:
- Choose lightweight, loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking athletic wear. Some autistic individuals prefer long sleeves or compression clothing for sensory comfort. Make sure these choices are light in color and well-ventilated. Consider UV-protective clothing and wide-brim hats if outdoors.
- Hydrate by drinking water regularly — even before feeling thirsty. For individuals with sensory aversions to plain water, try adding fruit slices such as lemon or cucumber, drinking chilled herbal teas or low-sugar electrolyte drinks, and using a favorite straw, cup, or bottle to make hydration more enjoyable.
- Stay indoors during peak heat. Limit outdoor activity between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. Use air-conditioned spaces if possible (libraries, malls, community centers). If A/C isn’t available, use fans and damp cloths on wrists, neck, or ankles to cool the body.
- Autistic individuals may be more sensitive to textures, temperature, or even the noise of fans and air conditioners. Try cooling vests or neck wraps, weighted cooling blankets or lap pads (can provide both regulation and relief), frozen water bottles wrapped in cloth to hold or press against skin, or cold foot soaks, which can be a great way to cool the body without getting fully wet.
When the heat is extreme, it’s important to watch out for signs of distress. Look for subtle clues that indicate overheating, such as red face, unusual irritability, withdrawal, or restlessness or stimming that’s more intense than usual. Consider it an emergency and seek help if someone is experiencing a rapid pulse, confusion or disorientation, vomiting, skin that is hot but dry, and loss of consciousness. These can be signs of heat stroke, which is life-threatening.
A hot-weather tool kit might be a comfort to individuals with autism, and could include a cooling towel or bandana, a reusable water bottle with a favorite flavor enhancer, a soft-brimmed hat or sunglasses (if tolerated), a fidget or stim toy for self-regulation, and a battery-powered personal fan.
Extreme weather affects everyone, but with the right strategies, individuals on the autism spectrum can stay safe, comfortable, and regulated during the hottest months. Listen to your body, and to those in your care, even when the signs are subtle.