functieverlies

Functieverlies is a medical term used in Dutch to describe the loss or impairment of bodily or cognitive function resulting from injury, disease, or aging. It encompasses deficits affecting motor control, sensation, cognition, or autonomic function, and can vary in severity from mild limitations to complete incapacity. The condition may be temporary or permanent, and may be unilateral or bilateral, depending on the underlying cause.

Common causes include stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases (such as Parkinson's disease or dementia), metabolic disorders, infections, and congenital conditions. Age-related wear, vascular disease, and lifestyle factors can contribute to progressive functieverlies in some contexts.

Assessment relies on clinical examination and standardized scales that quantify functional capability. Examples include the Barthel Index, Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and the Modified Rankin Scale, as well as disease-specific instruments. Patient-reported outcomes are also used to capture perceived limitations in daily living activities.

Management focuses on maximizing function and independence. Approaches include rehabilitation (physiotherapy, occupational therapy), assistive devices, environmental modifications, and, where appropriate, medical or surgical treatments. A multidisciplinary team coordinates care, often with goals to improve quality of life, participation in daily activities, and return to work or social roles.

Etymology and usage: functieverlies is formed from functie (function) and verlies (loss) in Dutch, and is commonly found in medical literature to describe impairment patterns. In some contexts it is used interchangeably with functiesverlies or disability terminology, though nuances may differ by specialty.

See also: disability, impairment, rehabilitation, activities of daily living, Barthel Index, FIM.