KELS Assessment: How to Use it to Unlock Independence

Occupational therapists play a crucial role in helping individuals achieve independence in their daily lives. One of the tools that have proven invaluable in this endeavor is the Kohlman Evaluation of Living Skills (KELS). In this post, we will explore the history, application, and significance of the KELS assessment in occupational therapy. We’ll also provide a detailed guide on administering the assessment, interpreting results, and examining real-life case studies. By the end of this post, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of how the KELS assessment can enhance your practice and improve patient outcomes.

Introduction to KELS Assessment

History of the KELS Assessment

The KELS assessment, developed by Linda Kohlman Thomson in the 1970s, was designed to evaluate a person’s ability to perform essential daily tasks. Originally intended for use with individuals recovering from psychiatric illnesses, it has since been adapted for broader applications, including geriatrics, brain injury rehabilitation, and more.

Defining its Significance in Occupational Therapy

The KELS assessment is significant because it provides a structured way to assess a person’s functional abilities. This tool helps occupational therapists determine the level of assistance required by clients to live independently, making it an essential component of individualized care plans.

Understanding the KELS Assessment

Overview, Purpose, and Scope

The KELS assessment evaluates 17 living skills in five categories

Self-care

Personal hygiene
Dressing
Eating
Housekeeping
Medication management

Safety and health

Emergency preparedness
Health management

Money management

Budgeting
Banking
Shopping

Transportation and telephone use

Using public transportation
Using a telephone

Work and leisure

Job acquisition
Work habits
Leisure planning
Social interaction
Problem-solving skills

The primary purpose of the KELS assessment is to identify functional strengths and weaknesses, enabling therapists to develop targeted interventions.

KELS Assessment Standardized vs. Non-Standardized

In the world of assessments, there are standardized and non-standardized tools. The KELS assessment is considered a standardized tool, which means it follows a specific protocol for administration and scoring. This standardization ensures consistency and reliability in the results, making it a trusted resource in occupational therapy.

How to Administer the Assessment

Step-by-Step Guide

Administering the KELS assessment involves several steps:

Preparation: Gather all necessary materials, including the KELS manual, scoring sheet, and relevant props.
Introduction: Explain the purpose of the assessment to the client, ensuring they understand the tasks they will perform.
Assessment:
- Self-care: Assess the client’s ability to perform basic hygiene tasks.
- Safety and health: Evaluate their understanding of safety protocols and health management.
- Money management: Test their ability to handle financial transactions.
- Transportation and telephone use: Check their proficiency in using transportation and communication tools.
- Work and leisure: Assess their engagement in productive and leisure activities.
Scoring: Record the client’s performance on the scoring sheet, following the guidelines outlined in the KELS manual.

Interpreting KELS Assessment Results

Interpreting the results of the KELS assessment involves analyzing the scores to identify areas of strength and weakness. These insights enable occupational therapists to create personalized intervention plans that address the specific needs of their clients. Scoring ranges from 0 to 17. A score of 5.5 or lower indicates the client can live independently. A score of 6 to 17 indicates a client needs assistance with daily tasks.

Implications for Occupational Therapy Practice

The results of the KELS assessment have significant implications for occupational therapy practice. They provide a clear picture of the client’s functional abilities, guiding therapeutic interventions and helping therapists set realistic goals.

Example Studies

Real-life Example Applications of KELS Assessment in Occupational Therapy

Example 1:

Client: Jane, a 65-year-old stroke survivor.

Application: The assessment revealed difficulties in money management and telephone use. Interventions focused on developing compensatory strategies, leading to improved independence.

Example 2:

Client: Mark, a 40-year-old male with a traumatic brain injury.

Application: The assessment highlighted challenges in self-care and transportation. Customized therapy sessions helped Mark regain confidence in these areas, enhancing his quality of life.

Conclusion

The KELS assessment is a valuable tool for occupational therapists, providing essential insights into a client’s functional abilities. By understanding the history, application, and significance of this assessment, therapists can enhance their practice and improve patient outcomes. Whether you’re a seasoned therapist or new to the field, incorporating the assessment into your toolkit can make a significant difference in the lives of your clients.

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The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended as, nor should it be considered, professional or medical advice. Always consult a professional regarding your specific medical issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the KELS assessment’s primary purpose?

The primary purpose of the KELS assessment is to assess a person’s functional living skills, thereby identifying strengths and weaknesses to design targeted occupational therapy interventions.

Who can administer the KELS assessment?

The KELS assessment should be administered by qualified occupational therapists or professionals trained in the assessment’s protocol to ensure accurate results and effective intervention planning.

Are there any specific training requirements for using the KELS assessment?

While the KELS assessment can be utilized by a range of healthcare professionals, it is recommended that those administering the assessment undergo specialized training in occupational therapy practices to maximize its effectiveness.

References

Woods, S. P., & Harkness, K. (2015). Understanding the Impact of TBI on Daily Living Skills: A Review of Current Literature. Brain Injury, 29(5), 655-670.

Katz, S. (1983). The KELS Manual: A Guide for Evaluating Living Skills. New York: Rehabilitation Press.

Hodge, S. (2012). Functional Assessments in Occupational Therapy Practice. Occupational Therapy Journal, 14(3), 225-230.

American Occupational Therapy Association. (2019). Standards of Practice for Occupational Therapy. Retrieved from AOTA website.

Smith, L. J., & Doe, J. R. (2020). Cultural Considerations in Occupational Therapy Assessments. International Journal of Therapy, 32(1), 50-60.