Lessons learned from studying the functional impact of adaptive seating interventions for children with cerebral palsy

Abstract

Little empirical evidence exists about the effectiveness of assistive technology interventions for children with cerebral palsy (CP) to inform clinical practice. This article reviews what we know about the functional impact of adaptive seating interventions - a common assistive technology type recommended for children with CP. A contemporary assistive technology outcomes framework is considered as a way to model the temporality and measure the effects of seating interventions and moderating cofactors. Three research studies are profiled to illustrate different research methods, measurement approaches, and follow-up periods to learn about adaptive seating outcomes. Recommendations for future research include the adoption of common measurement indicators, consideration of quality assessment criteria, and the use of varied methodologies to generate new knowledge about functional outcomes. It is suggested that the proposed strategies will lead to new understandings, clinical applications, and ultimately improvements in the everyday lives of children with CP and their families. What this paper adds: Rationale to study functional outcomes for adaptive seating interventions. Recommendations to measure the functional impact of adaptive seating.