Soothing and interactive device to reduce anxiety in autistic individuals

About the Eben-Hézer Foundation

The Eben-Hézer Foundation regularly welcomes volunteers and night watchers who are not healthcare professionals.

Challenge

Context
Autistic individuals may experience episodes of anxiety or sensory overload (due to noise, changes in routine, social interactions, etc.). These moments are hard to anticipate and can cause significant discomfort or even crises.
Current solutions—such as fidget objects, weighted blankets, music, or soft lighting—are helpful but often not personalized and may not meet individual needs.

Problem Statement
How can we design a discreet, sensory, and customizable object that helps autistic individuals self-regulate during moments of anxiety, while remaining easy to use for educational and nursing staff?

Solution ideas

• Interactive Soothing Lamp

  • Gentle variation of light and color (controlled by the person, based on their preferences)

  • Automatic mode: gesture or sound detection → calming activation

• Connected Sensory Textile or Cushion

  • Pleasant-to-touch material with gentle vibrations or diffuse warmth

  • Option to trigger a “soothing mode” (pressure, rhythmic vibration, soft integrated music)

• Multifunctional Portable Object (size of a comfort toy or small box)

  • Combines multiple sensory stimulations (light, vibration, texture, soft sound)

  • Portable: usable in bedrooms, during outings, or in group settings

• Multifunctional Sleeping Bags

Key requirements

• Autonomy of choice: the person can activate/deactivate the device as needed

• Personalization: settings by profile (preferred color, intensity, vibration)

• Simplicity: one button or intuitive gesture, no complex modes

• Safety: no small detachable parts, washable materials, durable

• Respect for dignity: discreet, non-stigmatizing design