The application of ICF-based functioning data on home environment adaptation for persons with disabilities

Abstract

Purpose: This study illustrates how the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domains and qualifiers could be used to create functioning profiles of persons with disabilities in order to plan environmental changes. The outcome of the interventions can be measured by before-and-after comparisons of these profiles. Method: 33 persons with disabilities (11 each from three provinces), with an average age of 43 years, were interviewed between November 2011 and May 2012. 67% of them were male. The functioning profiles of all the subjects were used as guidelines for home environment adaptations. Results: The data helped to understand the limitations of persons with disabilities and identified the areas that needed enhancement to improve their functioning. Modification lay-outs were provided for all 33 persons with disabilities. Conclusion and Implications: It was demonstrated that the ICF framework could help create functioning profiles to guide modifications in the home environment. Future studies should examine whether ICF can measure actual changes that occur after the modifications.