Cerebral palsy is a neurological disorder that affects movement, muscle tone, and posture. It results from abnormal brain development or brain damage before, during, or shortly after birth. This damage impacts areas of the brain responsible for movement and coordination, leading to lifelong challenges.
In many cases, cerebral palsy is caused by preventable birth injuries. Medical negligence—such as failing to recognize fetal distress, delaying a necessary C-section, or misusing delivery tools—can lead to oxygen deprivation, brain damage, and ultimately, cerebral palsy.
Children with cerebral palsy, along with their families, often require ongoing medical care, therapy, and specialized support. While the condition typically becomes apparent within the first year or two of life, many people are not fully aware of how cerebral palsy impacts aging.
Symptoms of Cerebral Palsy
To understand how cerebral palsy and aging relate, it’s important to look at the challenges that individuals with cerebral palsy face. Depending on the type and severity of cerebral palsy, symptoms may include:
- Difficulties with coordination and balance
- Excessively stiff muscles
- Weak muscles
- Involuntary muscle movements
- Speech difficulties
- Swallowing problems
- Hearing impairments
- Vision loss
- Seizures
The Relationship Between Cerebral Palsy and Aging
Cerebral palsy is often considered a non-degenerative condition, which means that the condition itself will not get worse with age. The brain damage that occurs during pregnancy or birth will remain the same throughout a person’s life. Today, thanks in part to medical advancements, many people with cerebral palsy live long lives. While the condition may not worsen, there are unique concerns for people with cerebral palsy as they age and cope with their lifetime disability.
Cerebral palsy has long-term effects that extend into adulthood. Adults with cerebral palsy also frequently experience “premature aging,” which means they can start feeling the effects of aging earlier than others who do not have to live around physical impairments.
Muscle Stiffness or Weakness: As people with cerebral palsy age, they may experience increased muscle stiffness (spasticity) or weakness, making movement more difficult. Over time, muscle imbalances can lead to joint pain, reduced flexibility, and greater fatigue during daily activities.
Chronic Pain and Arthritis: The strain of maintaining mobility with cerebral palsy can result in chronic pain, particularly in the neck, back, hips, and knees. Many adults develop arthritis earlier than the general population due to years of stress on the joints, contributing to discomfort and reduced physical function.
Walking and Mobility Issues: Approximately 24% of individuals with cerebral palsy who could walk in childhood lose that ability in adulthood. This decline often results from pain, arthritis, muscle fatigue, or increased difficulty maintaining balance. Some may transition to using wheelchairs or other mobility aids for greater convenience and safety.
Eating and Swallowing Difficulties: Over time, aging can exacerbate difficulties with chewing and swallowing (dysphagia), increasing the risk of choking or aspiration pneumonia. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, and other health complications.
Declines in Speech and Hearing: Speech difficulties may worsen due to muscle fatigue, spasticity, or reduced respiratory strength. Additionally, hearing loss is more common among adults with cerebral palsy, potentially impacting communication and social interaction.
Greater Risk of Falls: Falls are a leading cause of injury in older adults, and those with CP face an even higher risk due to balance issues, muscle weakness, and joint instability. Injuries from falls can lead to further mobility limitations and a loss of independence.
Isolation and Loneliness: Physical challenges, communication difficulties, and mobility limitations can lead to increased social isolation. As individuals age, they may find it harder to participate in community activities or maintain social connections, which can negatively impact mental health.
Addressing these challenges requires proactive medical care, therapy, and support systems to help individuals with CP maintain their independence and quality of life as they age.
Compensation for the Long-Term Effects of Cerebral Palsy
At Beam Legal Team, we understand that the long-term effects of cerebral palsy go far beyond initial medical expenses. Individuals with CP often face premature aging, requiring ongoing medical care and support. Our team fights to ensure families receive the full compensation they deserve, covering:
- Ongoing Medical Check-Ups – Regular doctor visits and specialist care to monitor changes in health.
- Costs of Medications – Pain management, muscle relaxants, and other necessary prescriptions.
- Ongoing Physical Therapies and Rehabilitation – Continuous physical, occupational, and speech therapy to maintain mobility and function.
- Wheelchairs, Assistive Devices, and Home Modifications – Adaptive equipment, wheelchair-accessible homes, and assistive technology.
- Long-Term Care Costs – Home health aides, assisted living, or specialized care facilities for aging individuals.
We are dedicated to securing the financial resources needed to support a lifetime of care, ensuring those with CP can maintain their independence and quality of life.
If You Need Legal Help, Contact Beam Legal Team Today
The challenges facing people suffering from cerebral palsy might feel daunting. However, if the condition was caused by medical negligence, then compensation might be available that will help victims navigate the financial challenges posed by cerebral palsy.
At Beam Legal Team, we’ve helped countless clients get the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.