ABSTRACT

Purpose : This study aimed to determine whether the quality of life (QOL) and participation in everyday activities of school-aged children with cerebral palsy (CP) differ according to the children’s individual characteristics. Methods : Sixty-nine subjects 8-15 years in age were selected for this study. Their QOL and participation in everyday activities were assessed using the Korean version of KIDSCREEN 52-HRQOL and a frequency of participation questionnaire. The characteristics of the subjects include their gender, age, classification of CP, paralytic type, intellectual quotient (IQ), gross motor functional classification system (GMFCS), bimanual fine-motor function (BFMF), and level of pain. Results : The QOL scores were significantly higher for those with a good functional level of GMFCS, high IQ, and the absence of pain (p<.05). The scores for everyday activity participation were significantly higher for those with a good functional level of GMFCS, a high BFMF, high IQ, and the absence of pain (p<.05). Finally, children with spastic diplegia had better scores than those with other types of diplegia (p<.05). Conclusion : The findings indicate that the QOL and participation in daily activities of school-aged children with cerebral palsy can be influenced by a variety of individual factors. Such findings may be used as specific considerations in planning efficient therapeutic strategies and in executing an actual treatment plan. Further studies will be continued in this field.