Most individuals with CP (cerebral palsy) have difficulty with posture and mobility or movement and some to more of a degree then others. If you are caring for a person with CP, it is important to keep them safe at all times but there are ways to encourage independence in a safe environment. Swallowing Difficulties Make sure the person you are caring for is eating a good diet. Often, people with CP have difficulty feeding themselves and/or swallowing difficulties plus they may pocket food (not chewing and swallowing food that has been put into the mouth). This can put them at risk for developing malnutrition or failure to thrive. Infants often are not diagnosed with CP right away. A parent or caregiver may notice formula or milk running out of one side of the infant's mouth. This could be caused by a weak sucking caused by problems with the facial muscles or swallowing issues from undiagnosed CP. If you notice a problem, contact your pediatrician right away. The younger a person who has CP is diagnosed plus the sooner intervention is implemented (like speech, physical and occupational therapies), usually, better outcomes can be expected. Appropriate equipment and devices Many individuals with CP and other disabilities can become more independent, safely, with the proper equipment and devices installed in their environment. For example, grab bars installed in the shower coupled with a shower chair will make bathing easier for the disabled individual and their caregiver. Large quilted bed pads are great for keeping the bed dry plus as an assist for helping a person to move around on their bed. A hospital bed is better for an individual who needs extra help as it can be raised to waist height to so there is less strain on the back of the caregiver as they help with adl's (activities of daily living), undergarment changes and other tasks.