Correlação entre Assistência do Cuidador e Desempenho Funcional em Crianças com Paralisia Cerebral

Objective. This study aimed to identify the correlation between level of care provided by caregivers and functional performance in children with cerebral palsy (CP). Method. Twelve (12) children with CP, level I and II of the GMFCS (Gross Motor Function Classification System) with a mean age of 3 years and 2 months, attended the Clinical Section of the Association of Pestalozzi Goiânia were evaluated using the Pediatric Evaluation Disability Inventory (PEDI). Results. Correlation analysis of the Functional Skills and Caregiver Assistance of the PEDI showed significant positive linear relationship between the caregiver and the care provided by the functional performance of children both in self-care (r = 0.87, p<0.001) and mobility (r= 0.78, p=0, 003). The correlation also showed a significant level of indepen dence as the child’s mobility and its performance in self-care activities (r = 0.61, p=0,033). Conclusion. We stress the need to involve carers in treatment and activities targeted to children with cerebral palsy so that they support the activities of functional autonomy in mobility and self-care of their child.