Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of movement disorders that appear in early childhood, caused by issues with brain development. It affects muscle tone, coordination, and posture, impacting a person's ability to perform daily activities. While the condition itself doesn't worsen with age, the needs of individuals living with CP can change as they grow. Family caregivers play a vital role in supporting your loved one at every stage.
Caring for All Ages: Cerebral Palsy in Adults and Children
CP affects individuals differently, and cerebral palsy life expectancy varies depending on the particular way it affects your loved one. In some cases, those with CP can live into their senior years. Children might require assistance with walking, talking, and feeding. Children may also have learning disabilities or sensory issues. Adults living with cerebral palsy often face similar challenges, albeit with varying degrees of severity. While adults living with CP can maintain some independence, in many cases there are activities they’ll need assistance with.
Open, clear communication between your loved one, any family caregivers and their doctor is vital to ensuring your loved one is getting the care they need.
Building a Cerebral Palsy Care Plan
No two individuals living with CP have the same needs. However, a well-developed cerebral palsy home care plan can be a valuable tool for families. Your doctor and any therapists your loved one sees regularly should also be consulted when figuring out a care plan. Here are some key elements to consider:
- Medical management: This includes regular checkups with a primary care physician, specialists like neurologists and orthopedists, and pain management strategies as part of cerebral palsy treatments.
- Therapies: Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can all play important roles in improving mobility, communication, and self-care skills.
- Assistive technologies: Tools like walkers, wheelchairs, communication devices, and virtual home care technology (like our Homewatch Connect™) can enhance independence and safety.
- Educational support: Children with CP may benefit from Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) or specialized learning programs to maximize their academic potential.
- Social and emotional support: Socialization is important for everyone, and adults and children with CP can benefit from connection and support groups. Mental health services might also be necessary.
Common Issues and Ongoing Care Needs
Several common issues may arise for individuals living with CP or any other type of chronic condition, and your caregiving role might involve assisting with:
- Assisting with mobility, including transfers, walking, and using adaptive equipment.
- Helping your loved one understand and express their needs, using assistive communication devices if necessary.
- Supporting activities of daily living (ADLs), including dressing, bathing, toileting, and eating.
- Helping your loved one manage chronic pain and discomfort.
- Ensuring your loved one maintains a healthy diet and proper hydration.
- Monitoring for and preventing infections, pressure sores, and other complications.
Get Compassionate, Professional Cerebral Palsy Home Care
Caring for a loved one living with CP can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Our compassionate caregivers can help with a variety of in-home care services, including assisting with bathing, dressing, and grooming, providing transportation assistance, and offering companionship. We can also provide respite care to allow family caregivers to attend to their own needs and prevent caregiver burnout.
Contact us today or call 888-404-5191 to learn more about our care options and schedule your free in-home consultation.
