What is the Epidemiological Impact of Functional Impairment?
Functional impairment has a profound epidemiological impact, as it influences several aspects of public health: - Public Health Burden: It contributes to the overall burden of disease, increasing healthcare costs and the need for long-term care services. - Quality of Life: It significantly affects an individual's quality of life, limiting their ability to engage in meaningful activities and maintain independence. - Healthcare Utilization: Individuals with functional impairments often require more frequent medical visits, hospitalizations, and specialized care, placing additional strain on healthcare systems. - Social and Economic Consequences: Functional impairment can lead to loss of employment, reduced income, and increased dependency on social support systems.