The COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected healthcare systems worldwide, including the care for children with special needs such as Cerebral Palsy (CP). A recent study published in the Indian Journal of Orthopaedics, titled Impact of COVID Pandemic on the Children with Cerebral Palsy, provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by these children and their caregivers during the pandemic. This blog aims to highlight the key findings from the study and suggest practical steps for practitioners to enhance their care delivery.
Key Findings from the Study
The study surveyed 101 caregivers of children with CP, revealing significant disruptions in therapy and rehabilitation services:
- 25.7% of children had no therapy sessions during the lockdown.
- 54 children experienced deterioration in physical function, and 34 had worsening deformities.
- 45 children exhibited changes in behavioral patterns, including increased irritability and aggression.
Practical Steps for Practitioners
Given the study's findings, practitioners can adopt several strategies to mitigate the impact of future disruptions:
- Implement Home-Based and Family-Centered Care: Encourage parents to engage in home-based therapy programs. Provide them with easy-to-follow instructions and regular virtual check-ins to ensure adherence.
- Enhance Telehealth Services: Expand telehealth services to include not only consultations but also virtual therapy sessions. Train caregivers on how to effectively use these services.
- Provide Resources and Training: Equip caregivers with the necessary resources and training to perform therapy at home. This can include video tutorials, written guides, and virtual workshops.
- Monitor Behavioral Changes: Regularly check in with caregivers to monitor any behavioral changes in children and provide appropriate interventions, such as virtual counseling or support groups.
Encouraging Further Research
The study underscores the need for more research into the long-term effects of the pandemic on children with CP. Practitioners are encouraged to participate in or initiate studies that explore:
- The efficacy of telehealth interventions for children with CP.
- The psychological impact of prolonged lockdowns on children with special needs and their caregivers.
- Innovative strategies to deliver uninterrupted therapy services during crises.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Impact of COVID Pandemic on the Children with Cerebral Palsy.
