Environment & Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP), a neurological condition which affects body movement and muscle coordination, can cause dependency issues. A person with CP may find her environment to be an obstacle, due to the physical limitations cerebral palsy creates.

Significance

Being in a functional environment plays a crucial role in developing self-confidence. This increases the person's chance of fulfilling his potential.

Mobility Technology

Mobility technology improves mobility, increasing a person's independence. Mobility technology can range from shoe inserts and other foot orthotics, to canes and wheelchairs.

Environmental Control System

An environmental control system (ECS) can be installed in a home to make the home environment easier to interact with. ECS, an electronic system, lets somebody with a disability control electronic appliances, such as lights and televisions, with a single remote.

Tips

Arrange furniture in a way to minimize environmental obstacles. By avoiding environmental obstacles, you decrease the chances of falls and other such concerns.

Considerations

Every case of cerebral palsy differs. One person with CP may only require small environmental assistance, such as shoe inserts and a railing for ascending/descending stairs, while another person with CP may need an electric wheelchair and ECS to function in his environment.

References

• Home Automation/Environmental Control/Electronic Aids for Daily Living (EADL): What is Environmental Control?
• National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Cerebral Palsy Information Page
• Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy: A Guide to Cerebral Palsy