Methodological Guidelines on Assessing Household Disability : Related Costs and Their Implication for Participation

Overview & Synopsis

Persons with disabilities and their families face substantial disability-related costs which may not be covered by social programs and policies. These costs may be direct (out of pocket expenses) or indirect (reduced education or employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and their caregivers) and can be financially draining, increase vulnerability and poverty as well as limit participation and inclusion. These costs are related to the person’s specific impairment and the physical and social environment. Direct disability-related costs include disability-specific expenses (those required only by persons with disabilities) such as assistive products, and expenses for everyday goods and services, which are often higher than average for persons with disabilities (for example, higher transportation or utility costs if the person with disability spends more time at home) or require a specific composition (such as a different food diet). Participation levels directly influence disability-related costs: when children with disabilities attend school or adults engage in work and social life, expenses such as transportation and device maintenance rise. In contrast, staying at home may reduce direct costs but may increase unpaid care needs and indirect costs for families.