The Dutch-Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2 (D-AIMS2) is a tool used to assess the impact of arthritis on the daily lives of patients. It represents the Dutch version of the AIMS2, a more comprehensive scale that measures the quality of life and functional status of individuals with arthritis.

Description

The D-AIMS2 includes a set of questions evaluating various aspects of life for individuals with arthritis, divided into specific domains.
Physical Functioning refers to the assessment of the ability to carry out daily activities, such as walking, going up and down stairs, and using the hands.
Symptoms involve the evaluation of pain intensity, stiffness, and fatigue.
Social Functioning concerns the impact of arthritis on social activities and relationships with other people.
Emotional Well-being assesses the psychological state, including emotions such as anxiety, depression, and irritability.
Work and Financial Status reflects the effect of arthritis on job performance and financial stability.

Analysis

The analysis of D-AIMS2 is based on collecting and evaluating responses in each domain. Answers are usually provided on a Likert scale, where patients rate the impact of arthritis on various activities and life aspects.
Composite Scores are calculated separately for each domain and as a total.
Measurement Comparison is used to monitor the course of the disease and assess the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions.

Purpose

The purpose of D-AIMS2 is to provide an overall picture of the impact of arthritis on patients’ lives.
Quality of Life Assessment aims to understand how arthritis affects patients’ daily life and well-being.
Support for Clinical Decisions helps healthcare professionals make informed decisions about appropriate treatment.
Therapy Monitoring evaluates the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions over time.

Scoring

Scoring in the D-AIMS2 involves gathering data from patients at regular intervals to assess changes in their health status.
The Total Score is calculated by summing the scores from all domains.
Specific Domains analysis allows for identifying the areas where patients face the greatest challenges.
Threshold Definition uses statistical models to detect clinically significant changes in patients’ condition.

References

Meenan, R. F., Gertman, P. M., & Mason, J. H. (1980). Measuring health status in arthritis: The Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales. Arthritis & Rheumatism, 23(2), 146–152.
Taal, E., Rasker, J. J., & Wiegman, O. (1996). Dutch version of the AIMS2: Cross-cultural adaptation and validation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. British Journal of Rheumatology, 35(8), 755–760.
Wolfe, F., & Hawley, D. J. (1997). Measurement of the quality of life in rheumatic disorders using the EuroQol. British Journal of Rheumatology, 36(7), 786–793.