An evaluation of quality of life of mothers of children with cerebral palsy.

Abstract

To evaluate the quality of life of mothers with children suffering from cerebral palsy compared with those who have children with minor health problems. Forty mothers with a child suffering from cerebral palsy and 44 mothers with a child suffering from minor health problems participated in a comparative study. The Turkish version of the Medical Outcomes 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) was used to assess a mother's quality of life. The severity of a child's motor disability was assessed using the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS). With the exception of the SF-36 physical functioning subscale, the mean scores on the SF-36 subscales were significantly lower in mothers of children with CP than those of the comparison group. The quality of life scores of mothers were significantly correlated with the severity of a child's motor disability (except physical functioning subscale). Significant correlations were found between GMFCS and the role physical; vitality; role emotional; and mental health subscales of the SF-36. The quality of life profile of mothers of children with cerebral palsy is different from those who have a child with minor health problems. Different coping strategies and psychosocial programmes must be designed and implemented to decrease the burden of care.