Preparing Adults with Cerebral Palsy to Move from Assisted to Independent Living.

Abstract

Background. To evaluate effectiveness of The Greenhouse for autonomy and independence to prepare adults with severe cerebral palsy (CP) for the transition from assisted to independent living. The intervention combines weekly individual sessions using Pathways and Resources for Engagement and Participation together with weekly group sessions. Method. Seven adults with severe CP ages 23-45 years (M = 35; SD = 10) participated in the 20-week program. An Interrupted Time Series quasi-experimental design was used, assessing the intervention effect over time. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure was administered bi-weekly from baseline to post-intervention to assess activity performance. Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Wheelchair use Confidence scale (WheelCon) and Impact on Participation and Autonomy (IPA) were administered baseline (4 weeks pre-intervention), mid and post-intervention, using Freidman test. Interviews were conducted four weeks after intervention. Findings. All participants' activity performance improved over time with significant clinical improvement in 95% of COPM goals. Significant improvement was seen in FIM (χ²= 8.07, p = .018) and WheelCon (χ²= 7.18, p = .028) though not in IPA. Participants described being better prepared, however more aware of challenges. Conclusion. The findings suggest the program may be effective to help adults with severe CP attain goals related to independent living and enhance function.