It is important to have the right team of medical and health professionals to support you through adulthood with cerebral palsy (CP). Your health, goals and support needs may change over time, and the people involved in your healthcare may change as well. 

Your healthcare should include both health needs related to CP and the same general healthcare and preventive care that other adults need. This may include physical health, mental health, sexual health, reproductive health and regular health checks. 

It can help to get to know members of your healthcare team where possible, so you can build trusting relationships, communicate openly and share information. This can help your team understand your needs and goals and develop appropriate care plans for different areas of your life, including home, study, work and social activities. 

Regular contact with your GP and other healthcare professionals can help identify changes in your health or function and make sure your care continues to meet your needs. Your team can also provide advice about treatments, therapies, equipment and assistive technology that may support your health, independence and participation. 

Young adulthood can bring changes in healthcare, study, work, relationships, living arrangements and independence. After transitioning from paediatric healthcare, your GP can play an important role in coordinating your general healthcare and referring you to adult specialists or other health professionals when needed. 

As you move through adulthood, you may notice changes in mobility, strength, fitness, pain, fatigue or your ability to do everyday activities. CP itself is not progressive, but its effects on your body, health and function can change over time. Talk to your GP or healthcare team if you notice new symptoms or changes in what you can do. They can assess whether these changes are related to CP, ageing or another health condition and help you find appropriate support. 

It is also important to keep up to date with preventive healthcare and regular health screening. The screening you need will depend on factors such as your age, sex, individual health needs and family history. This may include screening for conditions such as bowel, breast or cervical cancer, as appropriate. Your GP can advise you about the health checks and screening that are right for you. Australia’s national programmes have specific eligibility criteria, for example cervical screening is offered from ages 25 to 74 and bowel screening from ages 45 to 74.  

Alongside healthcare services, disability, community and family supports may also be available. For eligible participants, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) can fund disability-related supports such as assistance with daily activities, building independence and skills, assistive technology and some home or vehicle modifications. Other community, advocacy, peer and carer supports may also be helpful.