Cerebral palsy is the most common lifelong physical disability in the world, which is caused by a brain injury during pregnancy, birth, or shortly after birth. It affects movement, coordination, muscle tone and control, reflexes, posture, and balance which can have a significant impact on a person’s ability to carry out activities of daily living.
Around 18 million people of all ages have cerebral palsy worldwide. About 75% of the people with cerebral palsy experience chronic pain, 33% can’t walk, 33% have hip displacement, 25% can’t verbally communicate, and 6% are tube-fed.
According to a systematic review titled ‘Mothers’ experience of having a child with cerebral palsy’, children with cerebral palsy have long term care requirements that are different and often exceed the usual needs of typical children. Because of this, children with cerebral palsy are dependent on caregivers/parents and, most frequently mothers, for daily assistance.
The study highlighted that the daily lives of mothers with children affected by cerebral palsy are often more impacted as they are usually the primary caregiver and as such more likely to experience emotions and challenges.
The study referred to a recent review on parenting and caregiver experiences and needs highlighted the complex and multifaceted reality of caring for a child with cerebral palsy.
"Other studies have demonstrated that mothers of children with disabilities experience higher stress than fathers and are at greater risk of anxiety, depression, lower psychological wellbeing, and decreased health. Further, mothers must balance the role of parent and therapist, to provide care for a child that may require lifelong attention and rehabilitation,” the review added.