Assistive Technology for Children with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders affecting an individual’s ability to move, maintain balance and posture. Beyond affecting movement and posture, cerebral palsy also influences development and intellect, leading to challenges in speech, vision, and hearing. Assistive technology plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life and enhancing the capabilities of children with cerebral palsy. Assistive technology is designed to help individuals overcome physical limitations, promote their independence and participation in various activities. Using assistive technology for children with cerebral palsy offers wide range of advantages that can significantly improve their quality of life, independence, and overall well-being. This article reviews different types of assistive technology including mobility and positioning devices, communication devices, vision and hearing aid devices, environmental controls, the activity of daily living devices, and learning assistant devices used for children with cerebral palsy. Assistive technology encompasses various devices, each tailored to its function, aimed at enhancing both structural and functional aspects, such as the utilization of ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs) to regulate walking mechanics. It also involves tools that augment activity execution e.g. communication boards and assistive listening devices. Furthermore, alterations to the environment e.g. creating accessible bathrooms, that diminish or eradicate barriers to engagement, are also regarded as forms of assistive technology. Each assistive technology or device is highly individualized based on each child’s needs, abilities, and conditions. The use of assistive technology will be most effective and beneficial when the users learn how to use that technology or device by themselves properly and independently.