Cognition in adults with cerebral palsy: A systematic review.
Kanishka Baduni, Brittany Perry, Seth Warschausky et al.
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In 30 seconds
This systematic review synthesized studies of cognitive functioning in adults with cerebral palsy (CP), including evidence on cognitive domains, screening tools, age-related change, associated factors, and interventions. Thirty studies covered an estimated 1150 adults and 3900 assessments. Executive function and visuospatial and perceptual-motor skills were most frequently impaired; attention, processing speed, and episodic memory were also commonly reduced. Longitudinal and registry evidence suggested cognition was stable from late adolescence through mid-adulthood. Certainty was moderate for executive function and very low for other domains.
Key findings
- Thirty studies included an estimated 1150 adults with CP and 3900 cognitive assessments.
- Executive function and visuospatial and perceptual-motor skills were most frequently impaired; certainty was moderate for executive function and very low for other domains.
- Longitudinal and registry data suggested cognitive functioning remained stable from late adolescence through mid-adulthood.
- Across 48 instruments, no motor-minimized cognitive screening battery validated for CP was identified.
Why it matters
Cognitive difficulties in adults with CP may affect functioning but can be missed or mischaracterized when assessment tools depend on motor abilities or lack CP-specific validation. The review highlights the need to interpret cognitive findings in light of measurement limitations and the low certainty of evidence for most domains.
What to keep in mind
The review reports small samples, bias, inconsistency, and imprecision across studies; measurement limitations and selection biases constrain prevalence estimates.