The Challenges Faced by Caregivers of Children with Impairments of Psychological Functions: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective: To assess the challenges faced by caregivers of children with impairments of psychological functions (IPFs). Method: Data came from the 2001 Participation and Activity Limitation Survey, a post-census national survey of people with disabilities residing in the 10 Canadian provinces. Interviews of caregivers of children aged 5 to 14 years with a disability ( n = 3908) were conducted between September 2001 and January 2002. Results: Caregivers of children with IPFs who are severely limited in their everyday activities were more likely to: need respite care; be refused a child care program or service; not receive health services for their children when needed; and not take a job, quit work, and work fewer hours to care for their children. Conclusions: This highlights the importance of both removing barriers and obstacles to the full participation of children with IPFs in everyday activities and improving their caregivers' access to health and child care services. It also argues in favour of family-centred care that explicitly considers caregivers' concerns, identifies their needs and problems, and supports families in their caregiving roles.