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NCHPAD - Building Healthy Inclusive Communities

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Defining ICF


The International Classification of Functioning Disability and Health (ICF) provides a comprehensive framework to assess the relationship among an individual's function, activities, and participation while also considering environmental and personal factors that influence an individual's overall health. According to the World Health Organization, the overall aim of the ICF classification is to provide a unified and standard language and framework for the description of health and health-related states. It defines components of health and some health-related components of well-being (such as education and labor). The domains contained in ICF can be seen as health domains and health-related domains. These domains are described from the perspective of the body, the individual, and society in two basic categories: (1) Body Functions and Structures (system level); and (2) Activities and Participation (person level and person-environment interaction). The ICF can be used as a tool in exercise physiology to conduct a needs assessment or as an outcome evaluation. It allows the fitness professional to identify the barriers and facilitators that affect the health of the client with a disability. The ICF emphasizes function, NOT the health condition, and categorizes the situation, NOT the person.

ICF Structure/Components

Body functions are the physiological functions of body systems (including psychological functions).

Body structures are anatomical parts of the body such as organs, limbs, and their components.

Impairments are problems in body function or structure such as a significant deviation or loss.

Activity is the execution of a task or action by an individual.

Participation is involvement in a life situation.

Activity limitations are difficulties an individual may have in executing

activities.

Participation restrictions are problems an individual may experience in involvement in life situations.

Environmental factors make up the physical, social, and attitudinal

environment in which people live and conduct their lives.

Components

Part 1. Functioning and Disability

  1. Body Functions and Structures
  2. Activities and Participation

Part 2. Contextual Factors

  1. Environmental Factors
  2. Personal Factors*

*Personal Factors (not classified in ICF, but included in figure to show contribution and impact)


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