Occupational therapy for people with cerebral palsy

Content provided by Healthwise

Occupational therapy for people with cerebral palsy

The goal of occupational therapy for people with cerebral palsy is to help them live as independently as possible. Occupational therapy uses people's strengths to help them cope with their disabilities. It also helps them learn how to do daily activities such as dress, eat, and bathe by themselves.

Occupational therapists may use a wide range of items to help people with cerebral palsy care for themselves, such as:

Spoons or forks with heavy or large handles, dishes with higher lips to help keep food from slipping, and cups with special handles or tops.
Toys that can be easily held.
Special computers that can be used by touching the screen or by speaking the commands. Other computers can help people with cerebral palsy do many tasks that they would not normally be able to do. For example, computers can allow people to turn on a light switch by blinking their eyes or open a door by nodding their head.

Credits

Print Email SHARE

Author	Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics
Last Updated	October 14, 2008

Print Email Twitter Facebook MySpace AIM More

Last updated:	October 14, 2008
Author:	Debby Golonka, MPH
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Louis Pellegrino, MD - Developmental Pediatrics
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. By using AOL Body, you indicate that you have read, understood, and agreed to our Terms of Service, and AOL Body Advertising Policy. Read more about our content partners.