I know I don't have to tell you this.  But, it means don't make walking the
only overriding goal.  Being upright, proper exercise and general
independent movement are important for any one with or without a disability.
Prepare the mind, develop independence, make sure he learns to direct his
own care, that he can read and communicate, socialize, has chores to
complete, says his prayers, etc.
Look for balance in life.  Does he become overly exhausted walking all day?
Pushing a wheelchair?  It is helpful if he is able to get in and out of the
chair independently to sit in a regular chair, use the toilet, in and out of
bed, on the ground relaxing or wrestling with a bud.
The problem is with adults, life interfers, payment sources for therapy
often dry up and self discipline often diminishes (like the rest of us).

Beth T.

Sent: Saturday, April 20, 2002 12:21 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: Longitudinal Study of Adults with CP


Ok,some one help me interpret this study. Is it simply
saying that CP has a natural progression of
deteriation as one ages ( all the adults here seem to
agree with that) or is it saying that we shouldn't be
pushing the kids to walk when they are young because
it would cause more rapid deteriation as they get
older? Walking is possible for Alex with much support
but as things stand today walking will not be a main
mode of locomotion. We do make sure he is on his feet
as much as possible at this time as weight bearing is
necessary for proper hip bone formation. Then again
what good are hips if he isn't going to be using them
in the future anyways. So according to the study how
should  I be raising Alex in regards to walking and
other physical pursuits? Would he be better off in the
future if I just teach him to use an electric wc to
save on wear and tear?
Joanne