Community Engagement for Adults with Cerebral Palsy

Abstract

Adults with cerebral palsy have the same desires as those without disabilities to create their own path to becoming independent, valued, and engaged members of their communities. Their goals can be difficult to achieve given the everyday challenges they face. As they transition out of the protected world of high school, they need to learn and manage a new set of laws, rules, and obstacles to achieving their goals. This chapter explores four key areas for adults with cerebral palsy as they pursue community engagement and independence. The four areas are transportation, home health and support services (including attendant care), postsecondary education and work, and vocational services. Each section includes scientific literature and many other resources for both consumers and providers. A case scenario is also included that integrates each of these four areas, including challenges and solutions, from the perspective of an adult with cerebral palsy.