Self-perceived fatigue in relation to activity and participation in adolescents and adults with cerebral palsy living in urban South Africa

Purpose Understanding the level of fatigue experienced by adolescents and adults with cerebral palsy (CP) in low- and middle-income countries is crucial, as it can inform healthcare workers in the assessment, prevention, and management of fatigue for these individuals, similar to the approach taken in high-income countries. This study aimed to determine self-perceived fatigue and the level of accomplishments and satisfaction of activities and participation in daily life in adolescents and adults with CP compared with typically developing (TD) peers living in urban South Africa. The study also examined whether the outcome measures were associated within the CP cohort. Methods This case-control study included 31 adolescents and 30 adults with CP and TD peers matched for age, sex, and socio-economic status. Participants completed the Fatigue Severity Scale and Life-Habits Questionnaire. Results Self-perceived fatigue was reported in 14/31 adolescents with CP, 6/31 TD adolescents, 9/30 adults with CP, and 8/30 TD peers. No differences in fatigue were observed between adults or adolescents with CP and TD peers. However, accomplishment and satisfaction scores were lower for adolescents (p < 0.001 and p = 0.016, respectively) and adults with CP (both p < 0.001) compared to TD peers. Conclusions Individuals with CP living in urban South Africa reported similar levels of fatigue as TD peers. Despite limitations in accomplishing life habits, adolescents and adults with CP reported to be independent in their daily activities and satisfied with their community participation, which was unrelated to fatigue.