Functional independence profile of people with physical disabilities

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The Functional Independence Measure is an evaluation instrument that recognizes the functional evolution of the characteristics of physically disabilities and their abilities. Objective: To analyze the motor items of the functional independence level of people with physical disabilities in the municipality of Itajaí, state of Santa Catarina. Method: A cross-sectional quantitative study was carried out with 164 people with physical disabilities who lived in Itajaí/SC. Socioeconomic variables, and type and cause of disability were collected. To analyze the aspects that limit or contribute to functional independence, the Functional Independence Measure scale was applied. Statistical tests were used for comparisons according to the nature of the variables. Results: Most individuals (39%) were 41 to 60 years old; 44.5% had elementary education; only 10.4% are in the labor market, and 60.4% earns up to two minimum wages. Regarding the type of disability, 58% of participants presented plegia; 26.2%, paresis; and 15.8%, amputations. The etiology of disability was mainly related to neurological problems (43.3%). In the distribution of the average score of people with physical disabilities, half of the sample had average scores above six, and 67% above five, with significant differences in the mean independence scores according to occupation and type of disability. Conclusion: The results obtained support the decision-making process of physical therapists and health professionals.