Transition readiness assessment in cerebral palsy: A qualitative descriptive study
Cristina A Sarmiento1, Hannah Friedman2, Chloe Glaros3
1Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Division of Pediatric Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
Developmental Medicine and Child Neurology
|February 21, 2026
Summary
The Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) may not fully capture the diverse needs of adults with cerebral palsy (CP). A specialized tool is recommended to better assess transition readiness for individuals with CP and their caregivers.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Transitioning to adulthood is a critical phase for individuals with cerebral palsy (CP).
- Assessing readiness for this transition is crucial for ensuring adequate support and independence.
- The Transition Readiness Assessment Questionnaire (TRAQ) is a commonly used tool, but its applicability to the CP population requires examination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility and identify necessary modifications of the TRAQ for adults with CP and their caregivers.
- To understand the perspectives of individuals with CP and their caregivers regarding transition readiness assessment.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative descriptive study utilizing semi-structured interviews.
- Involved 21 participants: seven adults with CP, nine caregivers, and five dyads.
- Data analyzed using matrix analysis.
Main Results:
- Adults with CP found TRAQ relevant for assessing skills for adulthood, particularly medication management and daily living activities.
- Caregivers experienced challenges, feeling the tool did not adequately distinguish their role or account for long-term care management.
- A significant challenge was differentiating cognitive understanding from physical limitations in task execution.
Conclusions:
- The TRAQ may not fully encompass the wide spectrum of abilities and support needs in individuals with CP.
- A CP-specific assessment tool is needed to accurately capture diverse abilities and clearly define the caregiver's role.
- Future tools should differentiate between cognitive and physical capabilities and delineate caregiver responsibilities based on individual support requirements.
