Mothers Caring for Children Living With Cerebral Palsy: Suggestions for Psycho-Social Support

Abstract

Caring for children with cerebral palsy presents numerous circumstances which may contribute to mothers’ inability to cope with the demands of meeting their children’s needs. A qualitative study supported by explorative, descriptive and contextual designs was undertaken. Purposive and snowball sampling facilitated the identification of twelve participants who were interviewed through semi-structured interviews. The enquiry was based on the ecosystems approach. Thematic data analysis was followed through Tesch’s eight steps and Guba’s model was used for data verification. The findings highlighted the necessity to enhance the psycho-social functioning of mothers through collaboration of social workers, health professionals and various organisations.

Who really decides? Feeding decision-making ‘made’ by caregivers of children with cerebral palsy

“…While no information regarding costs specific to South Africa is currently available, it may be equated with Malaysia, given that both are categorised as middle-income countries. Raphulu et al ( 2021 ) pointed out that unemployed caregivers are reliant on their child’s dependency grant (for children with CP) of R1890 and the child support grant of R460 per month. Unsurprisingly, they found it financially challenging to care for all the child’s needs and transport between medical appointments.…”