Premature Symptoms of Ageing and Cerebral Palsy | Symptom Matrix 

If you are noticing changes in your body, you are not alone.   

Experiencing premature symptoms of ageing is common in adults with cerebral palsy — but you don’t have to manage it alone.  

The symptom matrix can help you understand your options and advocate for the support you need.

What are premature symptoms of ageing?

Adults with cerebral palsy may experience premature symptoms of ageing, which means changes can happen earlier than expected. 

These changes may include: 

• Reduced strength or mobility 
• Increased fatigue 
• More frequent pain 
• Higher risk of falls 
• Changes to swallowing or breathing  

Everyone’s experience is different — but recognising these changes early can help you get the right support. 

Why this matters 

The premature symptoms of ageing can affect your daily life, including: 

• Independence and self-care 
• Work, study or routines 
• Social activities and participation 

Over time, symptoms like pain, fatigue and mobility changes can make everyday tasks harder.  

Getting the right support early can help you stay independent and maintain your quality of life. 

How the Health Professional and Symptom Matrix can help 

The symptom matrix is a tool that can help you prepare for conversations and speak up about your needs: 

• Understand the changes you are experiencing 
• Identify possible supports 
• Start conversations with your GP or healthcare team 

It links common symptoms with health professionals and clinics who may be able to help.  

Not every symptom applies to everyone, and there may be more than one type of support for each issue. 

How to use the symptom matrix 

The matrix is designed to support, not replace, conversations with your healthcare team. 

You can use it to help you speak up about your needs and get the right care. 

Step 1: Notice changes 

Think about what has changed, for example: 

• “I feel more tired than usual” 
• “I’m falling more often” 
• “Daily tasks are getting harder” 

Step 2: Explore your options 

Use the matrix to see which health professionals might be relevant. 
There may be several — this is normal. 

Step 3: Talk to your GP or healthcare team 

Bring your observations (and the matrix if helpful) and discuss: 

• What is changing 
• How is it affecting your life 
• What support could help 

Your GP may: 

• Check for other possible causes 
• Suggest referrals 
• Help coordinate your care 

Example: putting it into practice 

If you are experiencing: 

• More frequent falls 
• Reduced strength and mobility 
• Increased fatigue 
• Difficulty with self-care 

The matrix can help guide a discussion with your GP about whether support from different professionals might help, such as: 

• A physiotherapist for strength and mobility 
• An occupational therapist for daily activities and fatigue 
• A rehabilitation physician to review medications 

Together, you and your healthcare team can build a plan that works for you. 

Tips for advocating for your health 

When using the matrix, remember: 

• You know your body best  
• Share what has changed and what matters to you 
• Ask questions and take your time 
• Bring a support person if helpful 
• Choose health professionals with experience in CP  

Advocating for yourself can help you access the right supports earlier and maintain your independence. 

Important: this is not medical advice 

The symptom matrix is a guide only. 

• It does not include every symptom or every health professional 
• It cannot diagnose or replace medical advice 
• Always speak with your GP or healthcare team before making decisions 

Take action 

• View the symptom matrix 
• Talk to your GP about changes you are noticing
• Watch the webinar on ageing and cerebral palsy