Talendurhæfingu

Talendurhæfingu is an Icelandic term used to describe rehabilitation and habilitation efforts focused on building a person’s endurance and functional capacity to participate in daily life, work, and social activities despite health-related limitations. The concept integrates physical, cognitive, and psychosocial dimensions and is typically tailored to the individual's diagnoses, abilities, and goals.

It encompasses assessment, goal setting, planning, and ongoing re-evaluation. Core components include graded physical activity to improve stamina; energy management and pacing; cognitive strategies for attention, memory, and executive function; social and communication skills; use of assistive devices and environmental adaptations; involvement of family and caregivers; vocational rehabilitation when relevant.

Delivery settings: interprofessional teams; clinics, community centers, schools, workplaces; individual or group formats; home-based options. Interventions are commonly delivered by professionals such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, and social workers, and may be organized as part of healthcare, education, or social services.

Evaluation and outcomes: talendurhæfingu aims for increased functional endurance, greater participation, and improved quality of life. The evidence base varies by condition and program design, but the approach emphasizes person-centered, inclusive practices and ongoing assessment to adapt goals and methods to the individual.

See also: rehabilitation, habilitation, disability services, chronic disease management.