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.