Underwear Issues
A few brave adults diagnosed with autism have asked about a taboo topic: underwear. Individuals with marked sensory issue often struggle to find clothing, socks, and shoes that are comfortable. Underwear is, of course, an important consideration for people with tactile sensitivities.
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The issue of underwear underscores two realities: (1) autism can impact nearly every facet of a person’s life and, (2) a single solution is not always viable for all situations. Our mission at FAQautism.com is to help raise the awareness of the complexity of autism and to share practical solutions that improve the quality of life of people with autism and those around them.
In keeping with that mission, today’s podcast focuses on input from adults who are dealing with vastly different underwear issues. One is overly sensitive to touch and the other prefers the deep pressure offered by confining clothing. Both shared their frustrations as well as some solutions.
(1) Baggy Sweats. Some individuals with autism are ultra-sensitive to touch, and prefer loose, cotton knit clothing. The young lady with autism who wrote us about this issue said she has started wearing knit boxer-style underwear since briefs or panties are very uncomfortable and confining. She prefers to wear baggy sweats and skirts to avoid uncomfortable, tight underwear.
(2) Deep Pressure. In contrast to the “baggy sweats” crowd, some people with autism prefer confining clothing that stays in place and offers necessary tactile pressure. This sensory issue is often addressed in classrooms with weighted vests, textured chair cushions, and other deep pressure objects. An adult with autism wrote of her need for secure, confining undergarments. Her solution was to wear Depends. She said that people around her probably would not understand why she wore “diapers,” so she kept her underwear issues secret. But this courageous person wanted to share the diaper idea with other people who have tactile issue related to autism. Another friend wears the tight compression shorts or capris available at sporting goods stores to help with her need for secure, deep pressure.
We thank our adult friends for asking questions and for providing possible solutions for issues that aren’t on the radar for most of us. We welcome input – both questions and ideas – from all. And we encourage you to let your friends know about this resource – http://FAQautism.com
NOTE TO READERS AND LISTENERS: I am Cathy Knoll, a board certified music therapist and long-time friend of many folks with autism. At FAQautism.com we are committed to providing free, practical, everyday tips for making life better for people with autism. Feel free to send me a confidential email at talk@FAQautism.com with your thoughts or challenging situations or innovative solution. And don’t forget to check out our website for a wealth of ideas and a glimpse into the world of autism. http://FAQautism.com
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