Participation restriction of children with cerebral palsy living in Thailand and influential factors: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective To explore participation in daily activities of children with cerebral palsy(CP) in Thailand and influential factors. Methods A convenience sample of family-caregivers of 80 children with CP, 6–18 year-old, completed self-administered questionnaires (i.e., frequency of participation, Gross Motor Function Classification System-Family Report) during clinic visits at a university hospital. Results Family-caregivers reported that more than one-third of the children never participated in outdoor activities. The gap in the frequency of participation between groups with high versus low motor function was very high. Better gross motor and communication were strong predictors of participation. Caregiver’s education and family income were associated with participation in art/cultural, leisure and tourist activities. Conclusions Family-caregiver-report suggests that Thai-children with CP, especially those with severe impairments, have limited participation in daily activities. Increasing mobility and communication may promote the participation. Comprehensive intervention is needed to narrow the participation gap found between high and low functioning children.