Rehabilitation Medical Term Defined: Functional Independence Measure Or FIM Score

FIM score is used to measure level of independence.

Therapists and nurses commonly use the FIM scale, which stands for Functional Independence Measure. The FIM scale is a tool used by therapists, physicians and nurses to assess the amount of assistance one requires to perform the various activities of daily living (ADLs). It is used to determine a person’s level of independence at the current moment and then to gauge one’s progress with rehabilitation.

FIM score of 1-7.

There is a FIM score given for each particular task/ADL. The score ranges from 1 to 7, with 1 being someone is totally dependent for assistance and a 7 being independent. So what about the numbers in between?

A score of 2 means maximum assist, meaning the patient is only capable of doing up to 25-49% of the work required to complete the task. If someone can do 50-74% of the work required, the FIM score would be a 3, moderate assist. The FIM score of 4 is for the person that can do greater than 75% of the work.

The difference between a score of 4 and a score of 3 (Supervision) is that the person helping is actually placing hands on the person needing assistance. The person at a Supervision level can do the physical work but just needs someone there to make sure it is being done correctly and safely.

The FIM score of 6 is for the modified independent level. This is a great level to achieve. The person scoring a 6 can do things independently but does require some sort of assist device, such as a walker or a grab bar. 

The actual number and the terms for each number are usually used interchangeably. Knowing exactly how much assistance one needs to perform the ADLs can be an excellent guide to the family in order to know if the supporting family members will be physically capable of providing the necessary assistance.

Please contact me or leave a comment if you have a specific question regarding FIM scoring.

© 2020 Jessica Kluetz, DO