Frequently asked questions
Here we answer some frequently asked questions by our users.
ICF is the abbreviation for International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health. It is a classification of the World Health Organization (WHO). This classification is valid worldwide and was published by the WHO in 2001. The classification intended to establish a changed and more holistic view of health or illness and disability. The previously more bio-medical view, for example, did not see illnesses or disabilities in the context of the individual. The ICF is therefore based on a bio-psycho-social model, in which a "health problem" (i.e. an illness or disability) is seen as potential interaction between a person, his or her situation and the contextual situation. Furthermore, according to this model, an illness or disability not only affects the functions and structures of a person's body (bio-medical view), but also their activities and participation.
This portal uses the ICF classification to find information - so initially, as a research tool. As a key information provider on disability, work and participation, REHADAT has linked parts of its content to ICF items. Thus, users of the portal can find information on assistive technology, practical examples of workplace adaptations and literature using the classification structure:
In the assistive technology section, solutions for everyday life, work and leisure are presented and described in detail. The product overview is neutral and structured.
The practical examples describe concrete and real examples of work design, such as conversions in companies or organisational changes such as adjustments to working hours and processes.
The literature section includes, for example, textbooks, guides, technical papers and scientific studies on the rehabilitation and participation of people with disabilities or illnesses.
Searching via the ICF classification can be helpful if, for example, you are looking for an assistive device but have no idea what kind of assistive device it might be. Then, for example, a search using an everyday activity such as "grasping" can give an overview of which assistive devices can be used if you have difficulty grasping objects. In addition, examples of workplaces where gripping aids are used is shown, as well as relevant literature on the subject being searched for.
Yes, the ICF-Guide is based on the original ICF version published by the World Health Organization (WHO) with the permission of the WHO - in both German and English. All items and definitions correspond to the publication of the ICF and REHADAT has made no changes or additions.
All rights to the ICF, including the German translation, are owned by the WHO.
The part of the personal factors is not yet classified in the original ICF.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has not yet systematically classified the person-related factors, as this could be associated with large socio-cultural differences and the risk of harming personal rights.
However, the WHO gives examples: "Person-related factors may include gender, ethnicity, age, other health problems, fitness, lifestyle, habits, upbringing, coping styles, social background, education and training, occupation and past or present experience (past or present events), general patterns of behaviour and character, individual mental capacity and other characteristics.
In the broadest sense, these are the characteristics and attributes of people.
Literature on contextual factors often discuss the topic of person-related factors.
In addition to the ICF classification, there is a so-called ICF-CY, which is based on the ICF but with specific reference to children and young people (child & youth).
As the focus of REHADAT is on the vocational participation of people with disabilities, only basic information can be found with regard to the rehabilitation and inclusion of children and young people. For example, aids for children are listed in the portal REHADAT-Assistive Products and can also be searched via the ICF-Guide. We had to refrain from the integration of the ICF-CY. However, as the WHO intends to integrate it into the ICF, this information will then also be available in the portal ICF-Guide.