Description

The Functional Rating Index (FRI) is an assessment tool used to evaluate an individual’s functional ability in relation to daily activities. It measures how various health conditions affect everyday functioning and is commonly used in contexts such as rehabilitation or chronic condition management.

The scale evaluates several aspects, including:

Disability and Daily Activities: Assesses how health conditions impact the individual’s ability to perform basic daily tasks.
Pain and Discomfort: Estimates the level of pain or physical discomfort experienced.
Functional Ability: Measures the person’s capacity to participate fully in activities important to their personal and social life.

Analysis

The analysis of the Functional Rating Index (FRI) involves the following steps:

Data Collection: Participants complete the FRI questionnaire, which includes items related to functional ability and the effects of their health condition on daily activities.
Score Calculation: Responses are typically rated on a Likert scale or other scoring system, enabling a quantitative assessment of functional ability.
Data Analysis: Results are analyzed to identify areas with reduced functional capacity and to determine which domains require improvement or intervention.

This analysis supports the design of targeted interventions aimed at improving quality of life and functional independence.

Purpose

The purpose of the Functional Rating Index (FRI) is to:

Evaluate Functional Ability: Provide a quantitative estimate of an individual’s capacity to perform daily activities.
Identify Areas Needing Intervention: Detect specific aspects of functional ability that are impaired or affected, to inform personalized intervention planning.
Monitor Progress: Track progress in rehabilitation or health condition management across different stages of care.

Scoring

Scoring the Functional Rating Index (FRI) involves:

Data Collection: Participants complete the questionnaire, which includes items related to their current functional abilities.
Index Calculation: Responses are converted into scores that reflect the individual’s functional status.
Validity and Reliability Assessment: The tool’s validity and reliability are examined to ensure accurate measurement of functional ability aspects.

References

Terry, J. A., & Jacobson, M. M. (1998). Functional Rating Index: Development and Validation. Journal of Rehabilitation Research and Development, 35(3), 295–305.
Katz, S., Ford, A. B., Moskowitz, R. W., Jackson, B. A., & Jaffe, M. W. (1963). Studies of illness in the aged: The Index of ADL: A standardized measure of biological and psychological function. Journal of the American Medical Association, 185(12), 914–919.
Wade, D. T., & Hewer, R. L. (1987). Functional Assessment in Rehabilitation Medicine. Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 50(7), 956–962.