Welcome to Our Neurology Module
Lindsey Reynolds
Jalesa Hood
Impact on Child and Family
Because Cerebral Palsy is so complex, it can place a lot of stress on the child and family. Cerebral Palsy is a chronic and life-long condition, so support is necessary throughout the entire journey. Below are some of the ways in which a family and child are impacted by the disorder. The impact that CP has on an individual varies greatly with the severity of the disorder.
Financially
Cerebral Palsy can cost upwards toward $900,000 in a lifetime due to both medical and assistive needs
Intellectual Disabilities are typically present in children with CP. This requires a family to work with the school to create and Individualized Plan
Determining the child's ability to live and support themselves independently. Family Roles may have to alter from before the child was born because personal care may become a family activity.
Stigma or bullying that may ensue from being/having a child with a disability
Stress of having to find suitable adaptations for any mobility equipment that might be necessary
Siblings may be forced into the background as the parents and caregvers focus on caring for a child who may need more support handling daily tasks
A lot of time is put in for children to go to rehab and therapy programs. A child may miss school or a family may miss work.
Parent's may blame themselves for the child being diagnosed
(Epilepsy)
The diagnoses process may be very stressful for parents who want to know what is wrong with their child, but cannot obtain a clear diagnosis.
It may be difficult for the child to communicate with their family or with others. This inability to communicate can be really frustrating for both parties.
The unpredictability for children who experience involuntary movements or other coexisting conditions can be very frightening for a child and family