Children with cerebral palsy often have mobility issues, but there are many devices that can help them regain varying degrees of it. They can be useful aids to help someone with CP live a fuller life, and they may even play a role in assisting them in physical therapy to build their strength. Knowing about the different options those with CP have for mobility aids can help your loved one improve their quality of life.
How Can Technology Help with Cerebral Palsy?
Technologies designed to help children with cerebral palsy can help them regain function in the world and live fuller lives. Technology can impact every aspect of their lives and can be used to enhance the following:
- Mobility
- Emotional development
- Education
- Self-confidence
- Personal independence
While the causes of cerebral palsy remain unknown, some cases appear to arise due to birth injuries. If your child suffered a birth injury, they may qualify for a settlement or a lawsuit to recover financial damages. Visit Birth Injury Lawyers for more information about resources that can help your child.
Assisted Mobility Technologies for Cerebral Palsy
Many of the technologies that are designed to assist people with cerebral palsy help them with mobility. Each of these can be broken down into several categories.
Wheeled Devices
Wheelchairs are commonly used to help those with CP improve their mobility and may be powered by a motor or operated manually. Tricycles can also be used for recreation and as a means of physical therapy, as they can assist in improving balance and muscle development. Scooters or wheeled walkers can also be used for those who lack stability but who desire or require improved mobility.
Orthotics and Walking Devices
Orthotics are devices that attach to the body and assist in movement while also correcting parts of it that are out of alignment, such as the back or hips. Walkers can provide a mobile platform that assists with overall stability. Canes and walking sticks can assist in those who can stand and walk with minimal intervention. Other walking devices include crutches, which can be used in some cases, while standers can assist in building strength and endurance for standing up.
Cars and Elevators
Cars can be adapted to accommodate children with cerebral palsy with extra-wide doors, more space in the interior, and car seats that are specially-designed for them. They can also be fitted with lifts that can raise children up into the car and lower them out of it. Home elevators can also be used to transport children up and down stairs.
Communication Technologies for Cerebral Palsy
Technologies for cerebral palsy can assist in communication for children with the condition. They can be high or low-tech and facilitate the ability of children to share information and absorb it. Some common communication technologies are as follows:
Communication boards: These may be low-tech and can consist of a simple grease board, or they may be electronic and can have the ability to speak for a child.
Speaking devices: Devices that assist a child in vocalizing can be used to improve their communications.
Eye-trackers: These sophisticated devices can help children who have severely limited mobility select items on a computer with their eyes and use them to communicate.
Technology is critical for helping children with cerebral palsy live fuller lives. They can also take some of the pressure off of parents and other caregivers. Ask your doctor or therapist if there are any technologies that are right for your family member with CP. There may be something out there that could make a big difference in your lives.
