Motivation for this study was to focus on improving outcomes for children through early stimulation, building on home programs and family-centered care that are aimed at early interventions. This research study was to improve outcomes for children with development delays and reduce stress experienced by their families. Empowering parents with a structured learning program is the most effective strategy to optimize outcomes for children with disabilities. The study evaluates the effectiveness of family-centered intervention program delivered at Dehradun.
This study examines for the first time, in a country with limited resources, relationship between reduction in family stress achieved through a family empowerment program and improved developmental outcomes for at-risk children. 2500 families whose children were born in rural and remote areas of hill state, Uttarakhand, India were study associates. Families of high-risk infants whose babies were admitted to the NICU, Doon Government Hospital, between January 2015 and July 2017 for 5 or >5 days. It involved a functional assessment and home management plan for parents by a multidisciplinary team. Assessments were conducted in all significant domains of a child’s development. Standardized tools, GMCD, MPOC, PSS and HRQoL were used for collecting data.
The families were divided into 2 groups, Group A consisted of families who were part of the family-centered approach and Group B did not attend EI services through family-centered approach. Results showed that children of Group A, experienced better developmental outcomes and families in Group B experienced higher levels of stress. The results prove there is a positive correlation between family-centered care and quality of life. Family-centered treatment improves the emotional health and optimizes outcomes. Assessments was done by using MPOC, PSS and HRQOL
The importance of family- centered care cannot be overstated. Early care services and family support can substantially enhance the quality of life of at-risk children. Intervention research for children with disabilities argues that the best way to improve a child's outcomes is to empower parents through a structured learning program.
Developing a family-centered module to assess and screen children in rural regions is essential. Technology can be used to impart audio and visual programs on early intervention for positive impact on a child’s development for long-term benefits to families in far-flung areas that are difficult to reach. Given the scope and potential of such programs this research validates benefits of family-centered approach.
Family-centered care
Improved development outcomes
