What is the core principle of the Functional Solutions Model of Disability?

The core principle of the Functional Solutions Model of Disability centers on the identification of functional impairments, which is essential for understanding disability in a nuanced and actionable way. This model shifts the focus from merely classifying disabilities based on medical or biological criteria to recognizing how these impairments affect an individual's ability to participate in everyday activities. By concentrating on functionality, this model seeks to analyze how people interact with their environments and what barriers they encounter, allowing for the development of tailored solutions that promote inclusion and accessibility.

This approach encourages the examination of both individual capabilities and the surrounding context, facilitating the design of interventions that enhance participation and address specific needs without attributing the challenges to personal failings or relying solely on medical treatments. Such a perspective fosters a more holistic understanding of disability and encourages advocates, policymakers, and practitioners to collaborate toward creating accessible and supportive environments for individuals with disabilities.