Investigating how children living with cerebral palsy are rehabilitated and their design needs (a case study of Angels Centre, Wakiso)

Abstract

Children with disabilities are among the most marginalized and disadvantaged groups in our society, posing a significant burden on child development. Among other things, ignorance and superstition influence Ugandan society's attitude towards disability. A child living with cerebral palsy in Uganda is unable to reach full development because most of the available rehabilitation facilities are improvised and therefore design needs specific to a child living with cerebral palsy are leftout. This study is done in partial fulfillment for the award of a Bachelor of Architecture degree. This research aimed to investigate and find out how children living with cerebral palsy are rehabilited and what their design needs are . This study has the potential to provide an understanding of how we can design rehabilitative spaces and environments that aid the sensory, physical and psychological development of children living with cerebral palsy so that they can easily integrate into society. A qualitative approach was taken to collect the necessary data and information including use of direct observation, photography, case studies and open-ended interviews. Previous literature on concepts and theories surrounding the research topic was examined, yielding a conceptual framework that was critical in understanding how architectural design features can be used to promote development of a child with cerebral palsy during rehabilitation. The research categorized the main architectural concepts under spatial functionality, Spatial quality and spatial composition. Recommendations for design under those concepts were provided in the conclusion chapter, and the guidelines suggested can be used in the creation of rehabilitation facilities for children with cerebral palsy.