First experience with the use of icf classification to evaluate patients with progressive neurological disease in research

Anotace: Neurological conditions are associated with a high level of disability, which affects the overall quality of life of patients and their integration in society. As the disease progresses, self-sufficiency and mobility gradually deteriorate. These limitations are made easier by the use of appropriate compensatory aids and the modification of the environment. The sample included a total of 56 patients with neurological diseases—Multiple Sclerosis (41), Parkinson’s disease (14), and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (1). Women prevailed in the sample, accounting for 73%. The average age of the patients in the sample was 59.4, ranging from 38 to 81 years. Clinical forms of the ICF classification (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health) were used to record the information on the functional state of the patients. The most information was obtained from the ICF classification component Restrictions on Activities and Participation. The qualifiers of performance and capacity point out the supportive use of assistance (e.g. adjustment of the environment, compensatory aids) to improve the participation in patient’s life. Through a comprehensive evaluation of the patient's functional health using the ICF classification, we can obtain his/her functional profile. This information can be used when planning the nursing and rehabilitation care.