For over 30 years, Rehab Assist has provided Case Management, Guardianship and Life Care Planning services for disabled and elderly clients ranging in age from 6 to 103 years. Our highly qualified and diverse team of professionals collaborates in working toward a shared goal of helping our clients to achieve their maximum quality of life.
Cerebral Palsy
Case Study: Cerebral Palsy
BACKGROUND:
Mary is a 13 year old female with cerebral palsy, cortical blindness and microcephaly. She functions at a 6 to 9 month old level. Mary is wheelchair bound and totally dependent on others for all of her activities of daily living [ADL’s]. When Rehab Assist was introduced to Mary she was residing in a trailer park with her parents and four siblings. She received a significant monetary settlement in a medical malpractice claim, and a trust fund was established for her needs. Mary’s parents were frequently overwhelmed by her needs and in dealing with their own issues which included alcohol and substance abuse and addiction.
INTERVENTIONS:
- Assisted family in finding new home and making necessary modifications for Mary.
- Coordinated and acquired specialized equipment including wheelchair, seating system, bed, mattress, shower and bath equipment and toys and learning devices.
- Arranged for installation of exterior ramping for safe entry / exit to home.
- Obtained discounts for ongoing medical supplies and arranged for delivery of same.
- Hired and supervised private care staff and negotiated services saving $7,000 / year.
- Facilitated increased attendance in special education program to 95 to 100%.
- Acquired and coordinated home physical therapy at discounted rate.
- Attended school special education staffings and coordinated specific recommendations.
- Coordinated installation of wheelchair lifts in home environment.
- Brokered purchase of modified vehicle and reported need for same to probate court.
- Established consistent budget for Mary including equipment, supplies, therapy, food, clothing and vacation funds.
- Provide ongoing support and services and monitoring of Mary’s (and parent’s) needs.
RESULTS:
Mary currently resides in a completely accessible four bedroom home with her family. She receives care provider services on a daily basis. Her attendance in a special education program is 95 to 100%. A fully modified van transports her to all community activities and physician appointments. She sleeps in a specialized bed with a customized mattress which prevents bed sores. Mary has gained 30 pounds and receives tube feedings on a regular basis. Her once frequent hospitalizations (due to choking) have all but been eliminated. Mary participates in daily rehabilitation services including: physical, occupational and speech therapy sessions. She has special adaptive toys and learning devices which her therapists and private duty care providers utilized when they work with her.