A physical disability scale is a measurement of ability or disability, depending on your diagnosed medical condition. For example, disability scales are offered in the areas of brain damage caused by stroke, multiple sclerosis, aging and cognitive abilities, among others. Health facilities and organizations utilize a variety of physical disability ratings scales that contain testing and function measurements for daily living activities.
Disability Scales
Commonly used disability ratings scales today are most typically based on the Glasgow Outcome Scale devised in the 1970s, used mainly to rate rehabilitation patients diagnosed with moderate to severe brain injury. Some disability scales used today have disadvantages, such as inability to rate disabilities caused by mild injuries and inability to measure changes in patient capabilities during a short period. Ratings in categories usually range from 0 to 5, the lower numbers corresponding to higher levels of independence.
Disability Focus
The focus of many physical aptitude or ability rating scales used in health care facilities includes ability to communicate and ability to feed, toilet and groom yourself. Your motor responses are measured, and in the case of severe brain injury, your ability to open your eyes or respond to directions or questions. The most important measurement factor in the disability rating scale for many is employability. For example, the scale may rate your dependence on others, your level of function in social environments and your ability to adapt to social environments and demands.
Motor Responses
Your motor responses are also measured in a physical disability scale. For example, you might be asked to respond or obey to verbal commands to extend or flex your arm or leg. You may be asked to move a single finger, or several. You'll be assessed for your ability to cut your own food and feed yourself, or your ability to open a can of soup or drink from a glass.
Level of Function
Your level of functioning and independence is also rated in the scale. For example, you'll be assessed on whether you can live on your own or if you require the supervision or support of someone else for daily tasks such as menu planning and food preparation, shopping, paying bills and other activities. Your ability to toilet or groom or bathe yourself will also be rated. Your safety is of primary concern. If you need help with daily activities or require daily reminders regarding medication or activities or you need someone with you at all times to ensure your physical safety, you may score higher on the disability scale. Capabilities are rated at a level between 0 and 5, the higher number corresponding to total dependence on someone else for your safety and wellness.
References
- Centre for Neuro Skills; TBI Resource Guide: Assessment Scales; Rappaport et al.; 1982
- Sage Journals Online; Clinical Rehabilitation: The Physical Activity and Disability Survey - Revised (PADS-R): an evaluation of a measure of physical activity in people with chronic neurological conditions; Nicola M Kayes; May 2009
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