Abstract

ALCASSA, Tatiana Cristina et al. Tetraparetic children and caregivers: featuring the profile and accessibility assistive technology. Rev. bras. crescimento desenvolv. hum. [online]. 2013, vol.23, n.1, pp.107-111. ISSN 0104-1282.

The objective of this study was to describe the profile of caregivers and children with tetraparesis according to their characteristics, sociodemographic aspects and accessibility, by means of a questionnaire developed and applied during the physical therapy sessions, performed at the sector of child neurology from the Rehabilitation Municipal Center of Santo André. We interviewed 19 caregivers of tetraparetic children diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy.Analysis of the results showed that the majority of caregivers were the mothers of selected children and that these women were engaged, fully, to take care of their children, abdicating their own professional or educational activities.The children had important motor impairment (GMFCS V), being dependent for many functional activities and needing some Assistive Technologies. It was also found little knowledge on the part of caregivers, in relation to this terminology that, associated with the lack of financial resources, may cause harm in the process of autonomy, participation and social inclusion of these children.

Keywords : cerebral palsy; children; self-help devices.

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