Investigation of the effects of functional levels of children with cerebral palsy on psychosocial status of caregivers

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of functional levels of children with cerebral palsy on the psychosocial status of caregivers. This study was a sectional scan model. This study included individuals with CP and their parents. parents did not have any mental disabilities but at the same time have a level of literacy that could understand and fill in the scales to be applied and give answers according to the guidelines. Functional levels of the children participating in our study were evaluated with Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS), Manual Ability Classification System (MACS) and Communication Function Classification System (CFCS). For caregivers, caregiver burden were measured with the Zarit Caregiver Burden Scale, and the stress coping styles were measured by the Resilience Inventory. The Turkish version of the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) was used to assess the quality of life of caregivers participating in the study, and the McGill pain scale was used to determine pain status (musculoskeletal problem). Considering the findings of this study, the burden of caregivers of children with CP is affected by the functional levels of these children. As the functional levels of children with CP deteriorate, the caregiver burden disrupts the health of the caregiver in many areas. In particular, the disruptions in the musculoskeletal system of the caregiver affect the overall health understanding of his or her life. Considering Nothingam's health profile data in this study, functional deformities in especially children with CP increase the pain associated with the caregiver's body. The increasing pain of the caregiver affects the physical activity and disrupts the general mood. As a result of our study, functional levels of children with CP mat effect the caregiver burden, the stress coping styles, the quality of life and especially musculoskeletal health of caregiver's.