What is the role of assistive devices in CP mobility?

Learn about Cerebral Palsy Impairments, Assessments, and Interventions. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Assistive devices in CP mobility are tools that support movement by compensating for limitations in strength, balance, or coordination. They increase independence by allowing the person to perform activities with less effort, improve safety by providing stability or support, and extend walking distance by reducing energy expenditure. Common options include walkers, canes, crutches for ambulatory needs; wheelchairs for those with limited or no ambulation; and powered mobility devices for longer distances or when fatigue is a concern. Therapists tailor selection, fitting, and training to the individual, and these devices are used alongside gait training and strengthening rather than replacing therapy. They’re appropriate for a wide range of ages and abilities, not just young children.