Open-access Environmental Factors Associated with Community Participation Among Adults with Cerebral Palsy Living in Brazil: an Exploratory Study2

ABSTRACT:

The objectives of this article were to characterize community participation among a group of adults with cerebral palsy and to investigate which environmental factors might be associated with their community participation. This is a quantitative, exploratory study involving 30 adults with cerebral palsy. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) was used to assess performance and satisfaction in community participation. An index was created to investigate the outcome of community participation, and the Measure of the Quality of the Environment (MQE-Brazil) was used to examine environmental factors. Descriptive analysis and multivariate linear regression (p < 0.05) were performed. The results indicate that the participants (n = 27; 97%) reported occupational issues related to social participation, such as going out with friends or family. This occupational issue was classified as important; their performance (median: 8; interquartile range: 1-10) and satisfaction (median: 10; interquartile range: 1-10) were evaluated. Regarding environmental facilitators, support from people around them, electronic communication, and assistive devices and adaptations explained 68% (p < 0.01) participation. It is concluded that participants consider their performance adequate and are satisfied with their community participation, highlighting more environmental facilitators than barriers. Support from close people, assistive devices, and electronic communication must be taken into consideration by health and education professionals who work with this population.

KEYWORDS:
Person with disability; Community life integration; Social environment

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