Barthel Index Score is a numerical score given to a patient based on his ability of self-care and mobility. It is a health index designed to help health staff know the severity of the ability to move and self-care in patients with certain health disorders, disabled people, and the elderly.

The major purpose of giving a Barthel Index Score to a patient is to make a better treatment plan for patients so that the recovery process can be sped up. A patient can receive a Barthel Index Score anywhere between 0 to 100 based on his current health condition. A score above 60 is considered a good score while a lower score is an indication of the severity of the physical disabilities in the patient.

To determine a Barthel Index Score of a patient, 10 activities of daily living (ADLs) are considered and this score is calculated using a Barthel Index Calculator. Let's find out the ADLs that are considered to check and analyze the severity of the patient's ability to self-care and mobility.

Eating

If the patient eats independently, 10 scores are given and if he needs help with it, 5 scores are given. A score of 0 is given when he is completely dependent on others.

Bathing

If the patient takes a shower independently, a score of 5 is given to the patient. In the case of complete inability, a score of 0 is given.

Dressing

If the patient can dress up without any help, 10 scores are provided to him. 5 and 0 scores are given respectively in case he needs help or he is completely dependent.

Bowel Control

In the case of the continent, 10 scores are assigned to the patient. For occasional incontinence, 5 scores are given while for regular incontinence, 0 scores are marked.

Toileting

If the patient can use the toilet independently, a score of 10 is provided. 5 scores are given in the case the patient needs help with it while if he is completely dependent, 0 scores are given to him.

The other five activities of daily living that are considered to determine the Barthel Index Score are bladder control, transferring, mobility, stairs climbing, and grooming. These ADLs are also given a score based on the patient's performance.