Disability: concepts and statistical information

Abstract

Background: The measurement and definition of disability is difficult due to its objective and subjective
characteristics. In Italy, three different perspectives have been developed during the last 40 years. These
various perspectives have had an effect, not only on how to measure disability, but also on policies to improve
the social integration of people with disabilities.
Methods: This paper examines the various conceptual models behind the definition of disability and the
differences in the estimated number of persons with disabilities. In addition, it analyses in accordance with
the International Classification of Functioning, disability and health, the European and international initiatives
undertaken to harmonize the definitions of disability.
Discussion: There are various bodies and central government agencies that either have management data or
carry out statistical systematic surveys and disability surveys. Statistically speaking, the worst aspect of this
scenario is that it creates confusion and uncertainty among the end users of this data, namely the policy makers.
At international level the statistical data on disability is scarcely comparable among countries, despite huge
efforts on behalf of international organisations to harmonize classifications and definitions of disability.
Conclusions: Statistical and administrative surveys provide information flows using a different definition and
label based on a conceptual model that reflects the time period in which they were implemented. The use of
different prescriptive definitions of disability produces different counts of persons with disabilities in Italy. For
this reason it is important to interpret the data correctly and choose the appropriate cross section that best
represents the population on which to focus attention.