Explaining the Variability of Responses to an Abridged Version of International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health Tool in Community Settings of Northern India

Abstract

Introduction: The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICFDH) gives a valid assessment for assessing the extent of impairment, level of capacity, performance, and functions along with the role of the environment. In the current study, an abridged version of ICFDH was developed and studied for its applicability in the general population for quantification along with summarizing the pattern of correlations among observed variables. Materials and methods: Descriptive study was carried out among 72 (36 in rural and urban area each) subjects with a response to 20 variables on 14 areas of the ICFDH. Principal component analysis (PCA) using R studio package (version 3.4.4) was done to detect a set of variables forming coherent subsets that are independent of each other. Results: Study subjects had mean age of 35 [standard deviation (SD) ± 5.4] years and 58.0% were males. The average score indicates mild level of impairment, mildly and moderately affected performance and capacity for learning and applied knowledge, and communication. Environmental support was observed with an average score of 2.78 for products and technology, 3.47 for supports and relationships, 3.42 for attitude toward others, and 3.29 for services, systems, and platforms. Sizes of correlation were significant in the matrix, with statistically significant Bartlett's test of sphericity (p=0.00) with good factorability (Kaiser-Meyer=0.76). First two components explains maximum (55.0%) of variance with high loading of 15 variables on the first principal component. Conclusion: Included variables are observed to be coherent with the theoretical construct of the ICFDH, and the study tool is quite feasible to administer in community-based settings.