Investigation of awareness of parents of children with cerebral palsy about illness, physiotherapy and rehabilitation

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to examine the awareness levels of parents who provide primary care to children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) about the disease, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation. Methods: Parents (n=78) of children with aged 4-18 years diagnosed CP, were included in the study. Cerebral Palsy Disease, Physiotherapy, and Rehabilitation Awareness Evaluation Questionnaire was used to determine the level of awareness. Results: The majority of the survey participants were mothers (85.9%). It was determined that the general awareness levels of the parents were low (5.17%), medium (56.41%), and high (38.46%). Awareness levels were found to be similar according to the education level and economic status of the parents (p>0.05). In addition, although parental awareness levels of children with CP increased according to their surgery history, age distribution, and gross motor function levels (GMFCS), there was no significant difference between them (p>0.05). Conclusion: It was determined that the awareness levels of parents with children with CP about the disease, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation were generally medium and high. It was observed that the awareness levels were not affected by the education levels of the parents, the GMFCS levels of their children, the age of the children, and the economic status of the family.