Cognitive Capacity Assessment: The Fundamental Element of Neurological Disability Guidelines in India

Neurol India. 2021 May-Jun;69(3):703-706. doi: 10.4103/0028-3886.319214.

Abstract

Background: Disability evaluation as per World Health Organization includes assessment of impairments, activity limitations, and participation restriction, which unfortunately is not assessed by the existing guidelines of disability in India.

Aim: The aim of this study wasto comparea new study criterion with the existing guidelines for assessing cognitive disability for chronic neurological conditions.

Methodology: A cross-sectional pilot study was conducted on 41 participants. They were assessed on an existing guideline (Gazette India 200,1 assessing physical domain and Intelligence Quotient[IQ]) and study criterion assessing three aspects of cognitive capacity: IQ, neurocognitive functioning, and QOL.

Results: The existing guideline underestimated 84% of cases for disability. The average percentage of disability measured by the study criterion was 33.2% more as compared to existing guidelines with S.D of 26.6.

Conclusion: Cognitive capacity assessment is an important element to be measured in chronic neurological disability certification. However, a large sample is required to make an affirmative claim for the same.

Keywords: Chronic neurological disorders; cognitive capacity assessment; disability.

MeSH terms

  • Cognition
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Disability Evaluation*
  • Humans
  • India
  • Pilot Projects
  • Quality of Life*