[Value of disease and awareness of disease--a gerontologic consideration]

In 1980 the World Health Organization issued an International Classification for the evaluation of lesions, functional impairments and social handicaps. Though it has been elaborated prevailingly for the disabled, in our opinion it is very well suited for the application in practical geriatrics. Unfortunately, this possibility of classification has not met with the proper response in gerontology yet. A revision for its application in gerontology, however, seems to be absolutely necessary. This classification expands the previously common process chain diagnosis-to-therapy. It provides the possibilities of a systematic incorporation of the consequences of a disease and of an extensive therapeutical strategy directed to the organization of an active, independent life. Both rehabilitative measures and aspects of coping with being chronically ill are taken into consideration. It will provide the preconditions of an evaluation of the need for medical and social care and allows a new geroprophylactical way of care as the connection between rehabilitation and prophylaxis, which is inseparable for gerontology, is made clear. It is an essential concern of these studies to use this International Classification and to make a contribution to its adaptation to socio-gerontological requirements.