Question: If a participant must brace/push themselves out of seated position using the chair arms or requires assistance of a cane/walker, is this coded as difficult to stand in section J4a even though they are able to complete the task without assistance of another individual.
Answer: Yes, if the participant is unable to rise without the weight bearing assistance of the device or chair. However, participant self-reporting should not be the only consideration when coding. Assessors should also use their observations, information gathered throughout the assessment, and diagnosis listed to make a reasonable determination if this task can be completed safely. Using the arm of the chair to assist oneself in standing does not necessarily mean they are not capable of safely standing, as it is common for a typical participant to use the arm of a chair to brace themselves when standing. Asking follow-up questions will also help get a better idea of the participant’s ability to stand from a seated position. E.g. Does the participant have to use another device or furniture or person to bear weight to stand? Do they have to rock back in forth to gain momentum to get up? Do they have to make several attempts at getting up before they are able to stand?