Utilization of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health Within Therapeutic Recreation Practice

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) is a revision of International Classification of Impairment, Disabilities and Handicaps developed by the World Health Organization, that reflects a universal, integrative, and interactive approach to functioning, disability, and health. The ICF was endorsed by the 54th World Health Assembly on May 22, 2001 for international use, is supported by a number of health-related disciplines, and will likely be implemented in clinical settings in the near future. The ICF is a global model that provides classifications of health and functioning while allowing for a holistic approach to well-being, as well as provides a common language for health-care disciplines to describe health related states. The ICF is a tool that can be utilized in therapeutic recreation research and practice, as well as in the education of students. Thus, the purpose of this article is to introduce the ICF model and its components, as well as highlight how it can be incorporated into therapeutic recreation practice.