Quality of life in parents/caretakers of children with cerebral palsy in Kampong Cham, Cambodia

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate QOL in parents/caretakers of children with cerebral palsy in the province of Kampong Cham, Cambodia. Forty parents/caretakers of children with cerebral palsy aged 1-13 years (F19/M21) participated in this study. The study was carried out using the Comprehensive Quality of life Scale A5 (ComQOL-A5) questionnaire. Results point out three major domains where quality of life is unsatisfactory: health, material well-being and emotional well-being. Of these areas, QOL in the health domain demonstrates the lowest scores. Results support a further commitment in providing comprehensive rehabilitation for parents and their children with CP in Kampong Cham. This study identifies the need for further research on QOL in parents/caretakers of children with CP in Cambodia and the need for development of valid and reliable QOL instruments targeting the developing world. © The Author [2011]. Published by Oxford University Press. All rights reserved.