Can people with severe cerebral palsy understand what you say to them?

Variable disorder: The defect in CP relates to an injury to the motor control centers in the brain. This primarily effects movement & posture. It may or may not involve any of the other thinking/behavior/speaking centers in the brain. Most CP patients have normal abilities to communicate & think. It is those with additional issues that may have problems.

Often too well: Most children with cerebral palsy understand far better than they can express. This causes a frustration that is hard to watch. However, most learn to deal with their problems in a manner than is truly inspiring. I have learned to admire the determination and tenacity of these patients as they learn to overcome their handicaps. Good therapists help them to achieve functional skills.

Often they do: Many many children and adults wife severe cerebral palsy understand all that is going on around them. They may have problems talking or giving you any indication that they understand, but it is clear, especially when they have the opportunity to use communication devices that many people with CP are very intelligent.