Assessment tools for cerebral palsy: new directions

Abstract

The extent and nature of a child‘s disability is determined, not only by their health condition and subsequent developmental deficits and activity limitations, but is also largely influenced by personal and environmental factors. Application of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, now widely endorsed internationally, greatly assists in the selection of assessment tools for children with a complex disorder such as cerebral palsy. This article provides an overview of the broad scope in which assessment should be framed, with examples of areas to evaluate and tools that may be considered for use. The target audience includes health professionals (medical and rehabilitation specialists) involved in the clinical management of children and youth with cerebral palsy.

Keywords: :

• activity
• assessment
• cerebral palsy
• contextual factors
• environment
• evaluation
• function
• participation