Severe Aphasia: Possible Contributions of Using the ICF in Assessment

Abstract

Abstract Purpose: This article discusses the use of the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) in the evaluation of persons with severe aphasia. Method: Patterson and Chapey's (2008) descriptions of the hallmarks of the assessment in aphasia are presented. The ICF is described and examined in terms of whether it could be beneficial in meeting these hallmarks. Results and Conclusions: The ICF is demonstrated to be able to contribute towards meeting the goals of this evaluation framework. It is concluded that use of the ICF by clinicians could assist in meeting the special challenges of conducting quality assessments of persons with severe aphasia.