Disability Experience and Measurement. (October 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Verbrugge, Lois M.
• Other Names: Chan Angelique guest-editor.; Saito Yasuhiko guest-editor.; Robine Jean-Marie guest-editor.
• Is Part Of: Journal of aging and health. Volume 28:Number 7(2016:Oct.)
• Page Start: 1124
• Page End: 1158
• Publication Date: 2016-10
• Subjects: disability -- disability measurement -- disability models; Older people -- Health and hygiene -- Periodicals; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; 618.97
• DOI: 10.1177/0898264316656519
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0898-2643

Abstract

Top themes of international research on disability in the past three decades are discussed: disability dynamics, buffers and barriers for disability, disability trends, and disability among very old persons. Each theme is highlighted by research examples. Turning to measurement, I discuss traditional measures of disability, new longer and shorter ones, and composites like disability-free life expectancy, noting their merits. Contemporary models of disability are presented, ranging from visual images to formal theories. The article ends on how scientists can facilitate movement of disability science into health care practice and policy.