Evaluation of strengths, challenges and needs of families caring for children with special needs according to the Omaha System

This study was conducted in a descriptive design type with the aim of evaluating the strengths, challenges and needs of the families of children with special needs receiving services from a special education and rehabilitation centre using the Omaha System. Families of children with special needs (N=600) registered at the rehabilitation centre between 24 April- 27 May 2024 constitute the population of the study. The study used the total count sampling method without any sample selection. 250 people who met the inclusion criteria participated in the study. Data were collected using the Introductory Information Form and the Simplified Omaha System Terms (SOST) based MyStrengths MyHealthTM (MSMH) mobile health application. In this study, it was determined that the participants did not experience any problems and had strengths in the most common problems of Reproductive Health (93,6%; n=234), Abuse (92%; n=230), Infections (85,6%; n=214), Neglect (85,2%; n=213), Grief or Loss (82,4%; n=206), Family Planning (82,4%; n=206), Spirituality or Faith (81,2%; n=203). Health Care (n=539), Emotion (n=538) and Income (n=461) problems were the most frequent challenges experienced by the participants. It was determined that the participants had the most needs for "Info/Guidance" related to Socializing (46%; n=353), "Hands-on Care" related to Oral Health (52,8%; n=132), "Check-ins" related to Pain (40,4%; n=101) and "Care Coordination" related to Income (66,8%; n=167). The strengths of participants are associated with gender, education level and care support resources (p<0.05). The challenges of participants are associated with marital status and education level of participants (p<0.05). In conclusion, SOST has enabled the evaluation of the strengths, challenges, and needs of families caring for children with special needs with a holistic approach. In studies aimed at protecting and promoting health, it is recommended to identify and enhance the strengths of families.