Barthel Index

Barthel Index: Assessing Functional Independence in Daily Activities

Introduction

The Barthel Index is a widely used tool for assessing functional independence in daily activities, particularly in the context of stroke and other conditions that affect mobility and self-care.

Applications and Benefits

The Barthel Index provides a standardized way to measure functional disability in 10 activities of daily living (ADLs), including feeding, bathing, dressing, toileting, and mobility. The resulting score can help healthcare professionals evaluate patients' level of independence, monitor progress over time, and determine appropriate interventions.

Methodology and Scoring

The Barthel Index consists of 10 items, each of which is scored on a scale of 0 to 4. The total score ranges from 0 (complete dependence) to 100 (full independence). Higher scores indicate greater functional independence.

Clinical Significance

The Barthel Index is a valuable tool for rehabilitation and geriatric care. It can help healthcare professionals assess the effectiveness of interventions, identify areas where patients need additional support, and make decisions about discharge planning and long-term care.