Mothers’ challenges and experiences of children with cerebral palsy: a qualitative meta-synthesis

Abstract

Abstract Objective To examine what challenges and experiences a mother faces in caring for children with cerebral palsy (CP). As the main caregiver of children with CP, mothers are under multiple pressures. Even though mothers’ challenges and experiences of children with CP will affect their quality of life and the rehabilitation of the children, little is known about their challenges and experiences during the whole care. Methods A qualitative meta-synthesis was conducted to extract and analyze qualitative research from the PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science, Ovid and MEDLINE databases. Thirteen articles were selected and analyzed using thematic syntheses. Results From 2522 screened abstracts, 84 texts were reviewed, and 13 studies met the inclusion criteria. Mothers’ challenges and experiences of children with CP include 4 themes, both positive and negative. Conclusions The mothers of children with CP suffer from physical burden, as well as psychological pressure, in the care experience; social and healthcare support are their main challenges. Interventions to help them face the difficulties and adapt to the role of caregivers as soon as possible should target multiple aspects in order to maximize effectiveness, to promote the healthy growth of children with CP.