✅ International Classification of Impairments, Disability, and Handicap
(ICIDH)
📘 What is ICIDH?
The ICIDH is a classification manual created by the World Health Organization
(WHO).
It helps to describe and code the consequences of diseases—especially how they
affect a person’s daily life.
It focuses on functioning and limitations, not just diagnosis.
🔍 Main Purpose
To understand, describe, and classify disability
To provide a global system for recording and comparing the impact of diseases
🧩 Three Dimensions of ICIDH (1980)
1. Impairment
o A problem with body structure or function
o Example: Muscle weakness, vision loss
2. Disability
o A difficulty performing an activity
o Example: Unable to walk, difficulty dressing
3. Handicap
o A limitation in social participation
o Example: Can’t go to work or attend school due to a health condition
📝 Note: "Handicap" is now an outdated term and has been replaced by "Participation
Restriction" in newer models.
📅 Versions of ICIDH
Version Name Year Notes
International Classification of First version; introduced the
ICIDH-1 1980
Impairments, Disabilities, and Handicaps 3-level model
ICIDH-2 International Classification of Updated version; more
2001
(now ICF) Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) holistic and person-centered
🔁 Transition to ICF (2001)
ICF replaced ICIDH to include:
o Environmental and personal factors
o Positive aspects of functioning
o A more inclusive and respectful language (e.g., replacing "handicap")
📌 Summary Chart:
Dimension ICIDH (1980) Meaning
Impairment Loss/abnormality of body structure Physical problem
Disability Difficulty in performing tasks Activity limitation
Handicap Problem in social role participation Participation restriction (now called in ICF)
Let me know if you’d like a comparison table between ICIDH and ICF or a visual chart
for quick memorization!