Generally, children born with cerebral palsy can expect to live between 30 and 70 years on average. Those with the longest life expectancies usually have more mobility, better medical care and adaptive equipment and greater autonomy and independence. There is no cure for cerebral palsy and the condition lasts for life.

Does cerebral palsy affect life span?

Cerebral palsy patients go on to live a healthy and normal life as they transition into adulthood. Severe cerebral palsy can decrease life expectancy due to significant physical and intellectual impairments and associated health conditions.

Can you live a normal life with CP?

Fortunately, CP is not thought to impact life expectancy. Adults with CP have a life expectancy comparable to that of the general population. While a cerebral palsy diagnosis may come as a surprise to parents, this condition can be managed with proper treatment and continued care.

Is cerebral palsy a terminal?

Cerebral palsy is not a terminal condition, but before the advent of newer medical techniques in the mid-twentieth century most children with CP did not live into adulthood; complications from the disorder claimed their lives. Today, between 65 and 90 percent of children with cerebral palsy reach adulthood.

Why are some people with cerebral palsy non-verbal?

Non-verbal cerebral palsy is caused by severe dysarthria, which describes difficulties controlling the muscles necessary to speak. Likewise, many children who are non-verbal also struggle with breathing, excessive drooling, chewing, and swallowing (dysphagia). Dysarthria can range from mild to severe.