Cerebral Palsy Care

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Surveillance of Cerebral Palsy in Europe developed the GMFCS system as a universal standard for determining the physical capabilities of people with CP.

The five levels of the GMFCS increase with decreasing mobility:

Level 1 cerebral palsy – characterized by being able to walk without limitations

Level 2 cerebral palsy – can walk long distances without limitations, but they can’t run or jump. They may need assistive devices, such as leg and arm braces, when first learning to walk. They also may need to use a wheelchair to get around outside of their home

Level 3 cerebral palsy – can sit with little support and stand without any support. They need handheld assistive devices, such as a walker or cane, while walking indoors. They also need a wheelchair to get around outside of the home

Level 4 cerebral palsy – can walk with the use of assistive devices. They’re able to move independently in a wheelchair, and they need some support when they’re sitting

Level 5 cerebral palsy – needs support to maintain their head and neck position. They need support to sit and stand, and they may be able to control a motorized wheelchair

CP is the most common motor disability of childhood with About 1 in 345 children as having been identified with CP according to estimates. CP is more common among boys than girls, and more common among those from ethnic minorities.

Life expectancy varies with each case of cerebral palsy and is dependent on the severity of the disorder and co-existing medical issues. Many children with milder forms of cerebral palsy enjoy life spans close to that of the average population.

However, while some individuals with severe impairments may live a long time, the more severe the impairment and the greater number of health conditions, the higher the likelihood of a shorter life span.

There’s currently no cure for cerebral palsy, but treatments are available to help people with the condition remain as active and independent as possible. These primarily focus around courses of physiotherapy – techniques such as exercise and stretching to help maintain physical ability and hopefully improve movement problems.

Children and adults with the condition are best cared for healthcare professionals, with the team at Trinity Homecare well versed in CP, we work with you to come up with an appropriate care plan.

However, cerebral palsy is also not progressive, which means it does not get worse over time.

Cerebral palsy affects many different parts of your body and causes symptoms that could limit the inability to walk or stand effectively or at all. It can also cause muscle stiffness, balance and coordination problems, involuntary movements, pain, intellectual disabilities, seizures, issues with vision, speech, hearing, and communication.

With the right care and support, you can live a long, happy and fulfilling life when living with CP. Participating in exercise, staying active, and finding the right help to have a hugely positive impact on your lifestyle.

Many people with a diagnosis of CP at a very young age, ongoing homecare as an adult allows you to receive compassionate care in the safety, comfort and familiarity of your home so you can continue living life the way you choose.