International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health in a cohort of children with cognitive, motor, and complex disabilities

Abstract

The recently endorsed World Health Organization (WHO) International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) is proposed as a new tool to describe human functioning and health in a multiprofessional approach for individuals of all ages. Its application to paediatric neurorehabilitation may be of great help, especially in children with complex disabilities. However, experience with its application in this field is still limited. We tested the application of ICF in 40 children (26 males, 14 females; age range 3 to 18 years; mean age 11 years 1 month, SD 5 years 3 months) with various types and degrees of disability. We tested the applicability and reliability of the classification, and studied its correlation with well‐established measures of functioning (Verbal IQ; gross motor function measure; functional independence measure). The ICF proved to be applicable and reliable, and strongly correlated with established scales. However, several of the Activity and Participation components do not fully capture the developmental nature of many abilities of children. Our study, although acknowledging the universal application of the ICF, and the ICF's value as a clinical tool, calls for its specific adaptation to accommodate better the peculiarities of child functioning and disability.

Assessment of everyday functioning in young children with disabilities: An ICF-based analysis of concepts and content of the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI)

“…Limitations in classifying functioning in young children by the ICF are described in a few other papers [4,5,36]. Battaglia et al [36] found difficulties in using the ICF checklist, particularly because the checklist included items that were not relevant for younger children and also some items that were inappropriately described to cover the developmental aspect of a function.…”

“…Battaglia et al [36] found difficulties in using the ICF checklist, particularly because the checklist included items that were not relevant for younger children and also some items that were inappropriately described to cover the developmental aspect of a function. A draft version of the ICF for children and youth (ICF-CY) is currently undergoing field trial [37].…”

Actual vs. best practices for young children with cerebral palsy: A survey of paediatric occupational therapists and physical therapists in Quebec, Canada

“…This condition demands comprehensive rehabilitation using age-appropriate tasks and activities [3] which encompass aspects of body function and structure, activity and participation and personal and environmental factors [4].…”

Theoretical perspectives and childhood participation

“…Although ICF was primarily designed for the adult population the model has been used in studies, reports and papers addressing childhood disability (Battaglia et al 2004;Beckung and Hagberg 2002;McConachie et al 2006;McDougall and Miller 2003;Simeonsson et al 2003;Simeonsson, McMillen, and Huntingdon 2002) where it is reported to provide a useful framework for defining domains and describing chronic disability. However, some important aspects of children's activities, such as play, were found to be lacking.…”