Professor Iona Novak Answers More Questions

Fri 28 May 2021

Question: What outcome measures can be used to analyze activity limitation, participation restrictions and contextual factors in developing countries? 

Iona's Answer: There are multiple outcome measures available to measure activity limitation and participation, but only some have been translated into languages other than English and cross-culturally validated.

“The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) is a client-centred outcome measure for individuals to identify and prioritize everyday issues that restrict their participation in everyday living. This measure focuses on occupational performance in all areas of life, including self-care, leisure and productivity. This outcome measure is used with persons of all ages…..The COPM is used in more than 40 countries around the world. It is available in 36 languages (COPM 2021).”

The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure is a good choice of measure in most contexts, because: (i) it is a semi-structured interview, so you can use the client’s first language and tailor the conversation to the family’s unique context and understanding; (ii) the client sets the goals for intervention and therefore by virtue the measurement will be meaningful and relevant to the client and their context; and (iii) the tool is low-cost with no training requirements. You can find more information here: https://www.thecopm.ca/

Thu 20 Mar 2025

Graphic with a green background and white text that reads: 'Keeping it Real: An Anonymous Story. A series of personal stories that will take you deeper into the lives of people with CP. PART THREE.' The bottom section is blue with white text that says 'Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month 2025' and includes the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation logo.

We recently connected with someone in our community who wanted to share their story anonymously. Check out the part three below. The final part will be available on Friday, March 28.

Fri 14 Mar 2025

Graphic with a green background and white text that reads: 'Keeping it Real: An Anonymous Story. A series of personal stories that will take you deeper into the lives of people with CP. PART TWO.' On the left side, there is a white outline illustration of a person skiing down a slope using adaptive equipment. The bottom section is blue with white text that says 'Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month 2025' and includes the Cerebral Palsy Alliance Research Foundation logo.

We recently connected with someone in our community who wanted to share their story anonymously. Check out part two below and stay tuned for more installments soon.