Having a child or loved one with cerebral palsy (CP) can present various psychological, social, financial and emotional challenges for the individual, family and caregivers. There is no cure for CP but the vast majority of children with the disorder live into adulthood (past 20 years of age). With surgery and physical therapy, people with mild to moderate CP can lead relatively normal and independent lives, gaining employment and driving cars. For severe cases, patients may require a lifetime of round-the-clock care.

Homes and cars may have to be customized with special equipment (e.g., wheelchairs and wheelchair lifts, ramps and handrails in hallways, stairways and bathrooms). The impact on the family life may be significant as well, especially if one parent has to stop working in order to care for the child.