The 10-Item Modified Barthel Index
Overview: The 10-item modified Barthel Index is intended to establish the degree of independence of the
patient from any help however minor and for whatever purpose.
Guidelines to completing:
• this should record what the patient does rather than what the patient could do
• the need for supervision indicates that the patient is not independent
• answers should be based on the best available evidence but direct observation is not required
• a patient who is unconscious is scored "0" throughout even if not yet incontinent
Parameter Finding Points
bowels (preceding week) continent 2
occasional accident (once a week) 1
incontinent (or needs to be given enemas) 0
bladder (preceding week) continent 2
occasional accident (once per 24 hours) 1
incontinent or catheterized and unable to
manage
0
grooming (preceding 24 - 48
hours)
independent 1
needs help 0
toilet use independent 2
needs some help 1
dependent 0
feeding independent 2
needs help 1
unable 0
transfer (from bed to chair
and back)
independent 3
minor help (verbal or physical) 2
major help (one or two persons physical) can
sit
1
unable; no sitting balance; need two people 0
