Decreased Access to Health Care and Social Isolation among Young Adults with Cerebral Palsy after Leaving School

Abstract

Objective. T o examine if leaving special schools has a negative impact on the health care and social isolation of young adults with cerebral palsy. Methods. Young adults with cerebral palsy, aged between 15 and 22 years, were divided into 2 cohorts: current students, who were still receiving services from special schools, and school-leavers, who had since been discharged from care. A questionnaire and physical examination were administered to assess the extent of disability, health care received by, and social isolation of these young adults. Results. School-leavers had a greater degree of dissability than did students, although the results were not statistically significant. Health care exposure to specialists, general practitioners, therapists (physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and/or speech therapists), and medical social workers decreased after leaving school; with the exception of contact with general practitioners, these results were significant (p<0.05). The entire cohort was more socially isolated than a control cohort. School-leavers participated in fewer activities outside their homes, but showed less concern about their disability than did current students. Conclusions. Young adults with cerebral palsy continue to have health care and lifestyle needs after leaving school, which are currently not being adequately met.