As leading cerebral palsy attorneys, it’s our job to offer due diligence and dispel myths associated with this condition. Cerebral palsy affects an estimated 10,000 babies per year in the USA. Sometimes, this is a result of complications during the delivery of a child, other times it’s caused by an underdeveloped brain. Cerebral palsy is also a common physical disability in childhood for thousands of people across the world.
Below, our team of expert medical attorneys has pooled together our knowledge of cerebral palsy to dispel some common myths associated with this condition.
Cerebral Palsy is a Progressive Condition
Cerebral palsy symptoms rarely increase in severity as people get older, and some symptoms may even improve over the years. Advancements in medicine and various surgical options have made improvements more realistic over the last 20 years.
People Living with Cerebral Palsy Can’t Live Independently
Although in some cases a person with cerebral palsy may have to be assisted for his or her whole life, many adults live independently with the condition. This is partly due to the advancements in assistive technology aids such as mobility options and transfer equipment. There is also a myriad of possibilities for home modification to make everything accessible for wheelchair users. Personal care assistance is still sometimes required for potentially tricky tasks.
Children with CP Are Intellectually Impaired
While CP is a neurological condition, it primarily impairs motor functions as opposed to mental functionality. That being said, almost 50 percent of children with CP will have a level of cognitive impairment. Children with CP are also more likely to have learning difficulties or disabilities. However, this does not make them intellectually impaired as such.
Colleges Refuse to Accept Students with Cerebral Palsy
It’s becoming more common for young adults with a cerebral palsy birth injury to pursue a college education in the U.S. Many colleges receive federal funding and are legally required to accommodate disabled students. Colleges that do not receive federal funding will often provide voluntary assistance to students with CP.
People with Cerebral Palsy Have Lower Life Expectancies
This isn’t true! Most people who have cerebral palsy have the same life expectancy as anyone in the general population. Although the amount of people working with CP is generally lower than that of the population at large, many people with CP will live independent lives and enjoy long careers.
For legal advice and representation regarding cerebral palsy, call us now at 1-877-292-6491 or click here to contact a member of our team.