Sleep concerns in children and young people with cerebral palsy in their home setting

Abstract

Aims: The aims were to identify in-home concerns about sleep in children and young people with cerebral palsy (CP) across age and Gross Motor Function Classification Scale (GMFCS) levels. Methods: This was a retrospective review of clinical notes of 154 children and young people with CP, aged 1–18 years (M = 7.8; standard deviation = 5.4) who received a home-based sleep service. Reported concerns were synthesised, for analysis according to age groups (1–5, 6–13, 14–18) and GMFCS levels. Results: Sixteen factors of concern were derived from the home-based assessment reports. Most children and young people had multiple factors of concern. These varied across age groups and GMFCS levels. Body position was of concern across all age groups, for over 90% at GMFCS levels IV and V, and for 10% at GMFCS level I. Settling routines were of concern for more than 90% at GMFCS levels I and II, but for less than 50% at GMFCS levels IV and V. Settling routines were of concern to over 65% of those under 6 years but less than 25% of those over 14 years. Conversely, pain and pressure care concerned less than 10% of children under 6, and more than 35% of those over 14 years. Conclusions: Concerns about sleep vary across ages and GMFCS levels of children and young people with CP. Concerns relate to impairment of body structure and function, activity, environment, and personal supports. Multi-disciplinary, home-based assessment and interventions are recommended to address these concerns.