With cerebral palsy affecting hundreds of thousands every year, we must look at how technology advances so that we can help individuals who have been diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy.

Technology can help with many factors, such as communication, mobility, and environmental

factors. Some technological advances are as simple as a spoon, and some are complex. All the

devices are shown to help with a specific need. So what are types of technology, and how can

they help with cerebral palsy?

Types of Technology and how they help

There is a wide range of technological devices to help those with cerebral palsy. There are four

main types of technology. Each of them has a specific purpose, but all of them can help those

with cerebral palsy do a wide range of activities, such as

● Participate in recreational activities

● Improve communication

● Better performance academically and overall

With all these benefits, let's go over the specific types of assistive technology and see how it

can help those with cerebral palsy.

Communication Devices

Communication technology can help express their needs and wants and build deeper

relationships with their families. There are many different types of communication devices, some

as simple as a picture board or other communication devices. But when talking about

communication devices, there are different technologies like…

● Speech-generating devices- These devices are similar to a computer and are mostly

used to help children with cerebral palsy. They can use a keyboard, a head-operated

switch, and even their eyes. The words selected will turn into automated speech.

● Writing and typing aids- Holding a pencil or pen may be challenging when trying to

write. Many devices can be secured on the hands and help a child with cerebral palsy

write and communicate better.

● Hearing aids and implants- Hearing aids help a child communicate better by helping

them understand what is being said. Some hearing aids must be implanted surgically

and simply sits inside the ear to help interpret sound.

● Eye tracking technology- This eye tracking technology allows children to be

understood simply by tracking their eye movement on a screen. This can be super

beneficial to those with trouble using their hands.

Depending on what your child's health needs will determine what kind of communication device

is best for his/her needs. There are some disadvantages to getting something

Mobility Devices

Because most people with cerebral palsy have some degree of limited mobility, mobility

technology is needed. Mobility technology can help those with cerebral palsy gain

self-confidence and a level of independence. Certain technologies are super helpful, like

crutches, wheelchairs, and even scooters. Some of these mobility devices allow your family

member to sit comfortably or be able to include them in a variety of activities. Each mobility

device is specific to the individual using it. Example: If a person with cerebral palsy can’t control

their hand movements, a wheelchair that uses their head for movement will be more beneficial.

Here are the top mobitiy devices that have been shown to benefit those with cerebral palsy.

Wheelchairs- Whether motorized, manual, or power-assisted, wheelchairs help individuals gain

independence and allow them to participate in day-to-day functions. Wheelchairs can be used to

help people with CP participate in various indoor and outdoor activities.

Orthotic boots- Orthotic boots can help individuals with CP improve posture by preventing the

foot from turning outwards. A physician can make this mold of your or a loved one's ankle,

making it the perfect fit. It's usually made with plastic and has foam inside for comfort.

Crutches- Those with cerebral palsy may have trouble balancing. Crutches are an affordable

option if this option is available to you. Crutches come in metal tubes padded at the top for

comfortable support. They come in different sizes depending on the user's weight, height, and

arm length.

There are many options available for your loved one. It all depends on their needs when

deciding which one to get.

Environmental Technology

Some technology is designed specifically just to make life easier for those with cerebral palsy.

Assistive devices for everyday tasks can help someone with cerebral palsy feel confident and

improve self-esteem. Some devices as simple as a modified toothbrush can help an individual

with cerebral palsy feel amazing. Some devices include.

● Adjustable toilet seats

● Support bars in specific rooms

● Weighted utensils

● Nonslip mats

● Adaptive furniture

A lot of these devices can help specific children develop a lifestyle of independence simply by

adding these tools.

Where do I get Assistive Technology?

When it comes to acquiring any type of assistive technology, there are several professionals

who can prescribe you some. These professionals can include doctors, physical therapists,

occupational therapists, and many more. If you’re unsure where to connect with a professional,

going to your local medical center to see if there are programs for you or your loved one is a

great place to start.

You should also note that technological needs may change as a person ages and develops over

time. This isn’t just mentioned for children; adults with cerebral palsy needs will change over

time.

The Cost of Assistive Technology

Those looking for financial help may be able to connect to a number of different government

programs. These programs will often help you acquire the specific technology you want.

Specifically, when a child enters school, their assistive technologies will be covered through a

504 plan.

Health insurance may also help you get some coverage for certain assistive technologies,

although it may be difficult to get coverage for new technology. Rehabilitation and job training

will also (sometimes) cover the cost of these technologies.

Those who are parents of cerebral palsy are encouraged to reach out to organizations such as

United Cerebral Palsy or the Cerebral Palsy Foundation. These organizations may be able to

help you navigate programs or find other options for those with cerebral palsy. There are many

different local or state organizations that will be glad to help in your area.

Key takeaways

Cerebral Palsy has been shown to affect hundreds of thousands of people every year. These

types of assistive technologies can help your loved one gain confidence and independence

simply by using the necessary tools. There is a wide range of assistive technologies to choose

from, such as

● Mobility- wheelchairs, crutches, scooters

● Communication- hearing devices, speech generating devices, eye tracking technology

● Environmental- specifically located bars, weighted utensils, adjustable toilet seats

Acquiring these types of technologies will not only help you’re loved ones but will also help you

have peace of mind.