Cerebral palsy is a condition caused by abnormal development or damage to the parts of the brain that control movement, balance, and posture. It affects around 1 in 400 people in the UK. While there is no cure, technology is playing an increasingly important role in improving quality of life and independence for those with cerebral palsy,from communication devices to robotic aids. Let’s take a look.
Assistive Communication Technology
One area where technology has made a huge difference is assisting communication. Around a third of cerebral palsy patients have some difficulty speaking. This can lead to isolation and frustration. Technology like speech-generation devices can give a voice to those who struggle to speak. The devices allow the user to ‘speak’ by typing words and phrases, which are then vocalised for them. Eye gaze technology is another innovation that allows the user to select words, letters, and symbols on a screen just by looking at them. For some, this can be the first time they are able to communicate independently.
Mobility Assistance
Getting around independently is important for quality of life. However, cerebral palsy symptoms like muscle tightness, weakness and balance issues can make mobility difficult. Tech is stepping in to provide robotic aids and clever mobility devices. Exoskeletons use sensors and motors to detect the user’s movements and provide extra power to assist walking. Robotic gait trainers guide leg movements to re-train muscle memory and teach walking motions. Standing devices help the user go from sitting to standing at the push of a button. With this new generation of mobility tech, those with cerebral palsy have more options to move around the world.
Increased Educational Awareness
Access to education is crucial for development. Cerebral palsy can make mainstream education challenging due to issues like learning difficulties, visual impairment and communication barriers. Adaptive technology is breaking down some of those barriers. Adjustable desks and chairs accommodate postural needs. Software reads text aloud for those with visual impairments. Typing aids and dictation apps provide alternative ways to write. While tech cannot remove all the challenges, it can help maximise educational access and inclusion for cerebral palsy students.
Entertainment Opportunities
Access to recreation, arts, media and entertainment is important for well-being and social inclusion. However, cerebral palsy can limit options for play, creativity and leisure. Specially adapted toys, joysticks and game controllers give new ways to play adapted to each child’s abilities. Drawing and art apps turn eye movements, or voice commands into creative expression. Hand grips and arm supports allow more control in craft activities.
The Cost of Tech
While technology has enormous potential to help transform lives, specialised equipment does not come cheap. Costs for a single communication aid can easily run into the thousands.While some government funding is available through bodies like NHS England, there are often lengthy waiting lists. Many families turn to charitable grants or community fundraising to purchase the tech that could unlock their child’s potential. Alternatively, they consider hiring a Belfast law firm to seek compensation for any medical malpractice or mistreatment that caused the cerebral palsy. With the right tech, recreation and entertainment become more inclusive.
Recent leaps in technology are significantly improving opportunities and quality of life for many cerebral palsy patients. Devices that give a voice to the non-verbal, freedom of movement, access to education, and recreation options were unimaginable just a generation ago. Tech will never cure the underlying condition, but it is empowering individuals to live more independently and pursue their potential.
