Functional Capacity

The maximum level at which a person can perform a given physical or cognitive activity under standardised conditions. Functional capacity represents what a person is capable of doing, as opposed to what they typically do in daily life (functional performance). In assistive technology assessment, measuring functional capacity helps determine which input devices, interfaces, and accommodations are appropriate for an individual. Functional capacity can vary over time due to fatigue, medication effects, progressive conditions, or environmental factors, making periodic reassessment important.