The Development Model for Cerebral Palsy Caregivers

Abstract

This participatory action research aimed to 1) study the situations and needs among cerebral palsy caregivers, 2)  develop a model that involve family in caring for children with cerebral palsy, and 3) to evaluate caregivers’ satisfactions in using the participatory model. The study was conducted in communities in jurisdiction of a community hospital in Roi-Et province. Informants included 18 caregivers and 7 professionals from health care team. The data were collected using in-depth interviews with informants, focus group and a satisfaction among caregivers .  The process was consisted of 3 stages: 1) study and analysis of situations, 2) development and use of the model, and 3) evaluation. The study was conducted during November 10, 2019 and November 10, 2020.

The results showed that 1) caregivers had knowledge and understood their roles as caregivers for children with cerebral palsy. However, they were lack of confidence and skills in providing care at home. Health care team was capable in terms of manpower and medical equipment to provide care for patients. 2) Development of participatory care model for children with cerebral palsy included improving knowledge and skills for caregivers, developing effective patient care plans and supporting orthotics for patients’ movements in their daily activities. 3) Satisfactions towards participatory care model among caregivers for cerebral palsy children were at a high level for caregivers (=4.69, SD=0.46) and health care team (=4.39, SD=0.48).