Chailey Levels of Ability

Assessment and outcome measure identifying components of posture that are limiting function or areas at risk of postural deformity. Children and young adults with a neurological impairment

None

Neurodisability (Other)

Adolescents (13-17 years)

None

Description
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.
Reliability / validity
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

Free

Mat, sitting surface/ stool

Training / experience recommended.

Strengths / weaknesses
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: downloadable
https://healthdocbox.com/Physical_Therapy/89152864-The-chailey-levels-of-ability-assessment-charts.html

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

Time to complete
10-20 minutes per section
Comments
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