Objective
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Chailey Levels of Ability
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Purpose
Assessment and outcome measure identifying components of posture that are limiting function or areas at risk of postural deformity.
Assesment Type
Patient Group
Cerebral Palsy | Neurodisability (Other)
Age Group
Children (3-12 years) | Adolescents (13-17 years) | Young Adult (18+ years)
ICF domain
Activity & Participation | Body Structure & Function
Area of assessment
Activities of Daily Living | Gross Motor
Key description
Children and young adults with a neurological impairment
An observational measurement of posture and ability in lying, sitting and standing. Scale of 6/7 levels of ability
Lying supine- 6 levels
Lying prone- 6 levels
Sitting on floor-7 levels
Sitting on bench- 7 levels
Standing-8 levels
Can be assessed as a whole or in separate sections.
Measures small changes over time.
Standardised for use in CP.
Content validity was established and correlations were high and positive between the Chailey Levels of Ability and both the Alberta Infant Motor Scale and the Gross Motor Function Measure.
Interrater reliability of 0.94, inter rater reliability of 0.92 for standing: 0.65 for supine lying and 0.73 for prone lying
Cost
Free
Equipment required
Mat, sitting surface/ stool
Training required
Training and experience recommended.
Considerations & references
Can be used to assess efficacy of postural support equipment,
Does not measure quality of movement
Ceiling effect at top end of standing assessment. Limited evidence of validity to date
Sections can be completed separately.; Has useful line drawings to help with assessment. Easy to use
Free:
Content and Criterion Validation of the Chailey Levels of Ability
Teresa E Pountney Liz Cheek Elizabeth Green Catharine Mulcahy
Roy Nelham. Physiotherapy VOLUME 85, ISSUE 8, P410-416, AUGUST 01, 1999 Available in Physio journal will need to download
10-20 minutes per section
In order to reach “a level of ability” all components of that level must be achieved.
Always mark the lowest level.
Only available in English
If you spot any errors or wish to suggest any amendments to this summary, please contact paediatricmeasures@apcp.org.uk