The management of disability in children and adolescents

Introduction

Children with disabilities are children 18 years or younger who have “long-term physical, mental, intellectual, or sensory impairments which in interaction with various barriers may hinder their full and effective participation in society on an equal basis with others”. In a 2021 report, UNICEF estimated that there are 236.35 million (10.1 %) children with disabilities aged 0–17 years.

Aim

This review discusses how care management for children and adolescents with disabilities should be shaped to facilitate the coordination, integration, and continuity of care for this group, thereby improving their quality of life.

Material and Method

A desk review of the European and national strategic, legislative, and policy framework and a review of scientific literature related to the research area were carried out.

Results

Care management for children and adolescents with disabilities requires a thorough analysis and understanding of many factors that shape the care processes. Care plans are an excellent tool for intertwining multiple perspectives of different experts, caregivers, and children/adolescents, intending to jointly shape short-term and long-term goals that will best strengthen the capacities of the child/adolescent and the caregivers and respond to their multidimensional needs. It is necessary to set goals within the current legal-administrative framework, taking into account the availability and quality of health care resources, therapy and rehabilitation programs, education, and social care, aiming to create an optimal model of social inclusion, financial, advisory, educational, and other support and to identify obstacles in the care path.

Conclusions

Individual approach, multidisciplinary cooperation, continuous education, and support for experts and caregivers, and thorough monitoring and evaluation of interventions are crucial in shaping optimal care for children and adolescents with disabilities.