Social Support for Children with Cerebral Palsy in Vientiane Municipality, Lao P.D.R.

Abstract

Introduction: The main objective of this study is to clarify the daily life and social support system for the children with cerebral palsy in Vientiane Municipality, Lao P. D. R.
Methods: Twenty school-age children with cerebral palsy who need help in most of their activities in daily life, and their families were interviewed in their homes. Data on15 children were suitable for analysis. Two of these 15 children were observed for 5 consecutive days, and their daily activities and interactions with family members and other people were recorded.
Results: Few public social welfare services were provided by specialized staff. Family members provided most of the children's care. However, although the children's activities were limited to their homes and immediate surroundings, the children had extensive contact with extended family members and neighbors, including other children.
Discussion: The social welfare system in Vientiane Municipality is still underdeveloped. However existing community networks for watching over children offer significant potential for community based care for children with disabilities.