Predictors of needs for families of children with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Background: This study examined child, family and service characteristics that are predictors of family needs for community, financial, family support and services needs for families of children with cerebral palsy (CP). CP is a non-progressive neurological condition caused by lesions in the central nervous system resulting in limitations in motor function and associated co-morbid conditions. Children with CP often require multiple health, rehabilitation, and community services. Purpose: To identify risk and protective factors among predictors of needed resources and services (i.e. community, financial, family support) and to discuss implications for coordination of medical, rehabilitation, and community services for children with CP and their families. Methods: Secondary data analysis was conducted with a national dataset (n = 441) of mothers of children with CP. The average age of children was 10.7 years (SD = 4.5) and was distributed across the various Gross Motor Function Classification System levels. Four logistic regression models were conducted to examine predictive power of child, family and current service characteristics on needed resources and services. Results: Limited child gross motor function was a risk factor (odds ratio (OR): 1.30–1.70) while perception of family-centered services (FCS) was a protective factor (OR: 0.57–0.63) in having the needs met. Conclusion: Mothers of children with CP who are able to walk, reported strong family relationships, and perceived need-oriented and FCS expressed less needs for community, financial, family support and services’ resources needs. Implications for service providers are provided.

Implications for Rehabilitation

• Over 90% of participant mothers of children and youth with CP expressed needs for medical, rehabilitation, school-based and community-based services for their children.

• Mothers of children and youth with CP who have severe limitation in functional mobility or might use wheeled mobility were at higher risk for expressing family needs related to locating community resources, paying for medical expenses and finding resources that support their family functioning.

• Mothers of children and youth with CP who perceived family-centered, respectful and supportive, and accessible services for their children were at lower risk of expressing needs for community, financial and family support resources.

• Cerebral palsy
• children
• family-centered services
• family needs
• rehabilitation services