Occupational therapy provides a variety of benefits to children with cerebral paralysis. Helps children to participate actively and to the best of their ability in daily activities. Occupational therapy intervenes in various areas depending on the difficulties that a child presents, whether they are motor, cognitive and even psycho-emotional.
Motor dysfunction affects children with cerebral paralysis in many ways, which can make it difficult to participate in daily activities. For example, difficulties with daily hygiene, movement, posture and completing schoolwork due to movement restrictions. An occupational therapist evaluates each child’s needs and adapts their treatment to achieve their personal goals. Activities and services may vary accordingly but are based on documented practices and principles such as CIMT and kinetic learning theory.
Occupational therapy also helps children with cerebral paralysis who have cognitive impairment. One way is to establish daily routines so that there is organization in the child’s life and he/she can follow a series of activities such as dressing/undressing, personal hygiene and other activities related to everyday life.
As mentioned earlier, occupational therapy helps with daily activities such as eating, dressing, hygiene and motor skills. Other activities that occupational therapy can help with include:
- Capturing objects
- Use of everyday devices
- Preschool and school activities
- Writing
- Playing
- Sociability (Interaction with other children)
Children with cerebral paralysis are not the only ones who can benefit from occupational therapy. With successful treatment, parents and carers also benefit from watching their children prosper both physically and emotionally. This process helps reduce stress and provides a sense of calm as the child becomes more independent and productive.
Benefits of Occupational Therapy in Children with Cerebral Paralysis
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Children
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Parents
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Independence
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Reduce stress
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Improving skills related to play and learning
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Providing a sense of security
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Enhancing self-esteem and self-confidence
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It allows parents to watch their child improve and become independent
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Development of a functional routine
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Improving the quality of life
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Improving the quality of life
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Occupational Therapy Evaluation
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Occupational Therapy Evaluation
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Motor Skills
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Developmental condition
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Cognitive development and function
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Emotional needs
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Home and school environment
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Charalambos Anastasiou
Occupational Therapist