The Perspectives of Young Adults with Cerebral Palsy on Transition to Adult’s Health Care and Rehabilitation

Ira Jeglinsky-Kankainen (), Nea Vänskä, Anu Kinnunen, Heli Sätilä and Salla Sipari
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Ira Jeglinsky-Kankainen: Graduate School and Research, Arcada University of Applied Sciences, 00560 Helsinki, Finland
Nea Vänskä: Futureproof Health and Wellbeing Innovation Hub, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, 00920 Helsinki, Finland
Anu Kinnunen: Master School, Savonia University of Applied Sciences, 70210 Kuopio, Finland
Heli Sätilä: Department of Child Neurology, Päijät-Häme Central Hospital, 15850 Lahti, Finland
Salla Sipari: Futureproof Health and Wellbeing Innovation Hub, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, 00920 Helsinki, Finland

Disabilities, 2025, vol. 5, issue 1, 1-14

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to describe the perspectives of young adults with cerebral palsy on participating in the transition process when transitioning from children’s health care to adults’ health care and rehabilitation. A phenomenographic approach with data collected with semi-structured interviews was used. Fourteen young adults aged 19–26 with cerebral palsy participated. The analysis resulted in four categories: (1) need for comprehensive and participatory rehabilitation; (2) barriers in the rehabilitation system; (3) self-awareness, courage and activity are rewarded; and (4) a dream of an active role in society. To conclude, the young adults had both positive and negative experiences of the transition process as well as of the rehabilitation planning at the adult health care service. It is important to start the transition planning early, and to involve the young adult as an active participant in the planning process. Both in the transition phase and in the adult health care service an anticipatory and collaborative approach where the young adult’s holistic needs would be considered should be standard practice. A focus is needed on how to grow towards a good adulthood and how to live a meaningful life as a valued member of society.

Keywords: transition; participation; young adults; cerebral palsy (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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