Occupational Strategies for Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a non-progressive neurological disorder caused by brain damage that hinders body movement and muscle coordination. The severity of CP varies case to case and depends on the amount of brain damage. Occupational strategies allow a person with cerebral palsy to reach his full potential. Occupational strategies refer to plans that focus on making the most of life at home, school and work. State and federal laws ensure those with cerebral palsy are given a chance to excel in life.

Home

• Assistive technologies, devices that make difficult tasks easier, are commonly used in CP home occupational strategies. Assistive technology could range from a wheelchair for maneuvering around to simplified remotes to control electronic devices, like radios and televisions. A specialized computer mouse that makes computer navigation easier is another example of assistive technology.

  From a financial standpoint, having cerebral palsy can be rather costly. Costs may include doctor visits, therapy sessions and prescription medications to control muscle spasms. However, each state has programming to help those with cerebral palsy meet the financial obligations of CP. Medicaid provides health care to those with disabilities such as cerebral palsy. Children with cerebral palsy may be eligible for Children's Health Insurance, a government-run program that provides low-cost health care to children.

School

• The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law requiring schools to provide an education to individuals with disabilities up to the age of 22.
  School occupational strategies start with an individualized education plan (IEP). An IEP is managed by a group that includes the child, the child's parents, a special educator (like a therapist), a classroom teacher and a school administrator. Together the group works to set educational goals for the child. Necessary occupational strategies are implemented to allow the child to reach his educational goals. One special accommodation that may be needed is audio books. The National Library Service provides free audio books to children with physical disabilities.

Work

• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prevents an employer from discriminating against disabled people when hiring employees. As long as a disabled candidate can fulfill the given job description, he has to be considered for the job. The ADA also requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations in the workplace to disabled employees. Communication between an employee with cerebral palsy and his employer is essential to providing a proper workplace environment for the employee. Employers should be aware of any changes to the laws in reference to employing disabled people. State and federal departments of labor are good places to obtain information on changes to laws in the workplace.