Intent:
To describe the person's ability to comprehend verbal information whether communicated to the person orally, in writing, or through sign language or Braille. This item measures not only the person's ability to hear messages but also to process and understand language.
Process:
Interact with the person. Consult with family.
Coding:
Enter the number corresponding to the most correct response.
Understands — Clearly comprehends the speaker’s message(s) and demonstrates comprehension by words or actions/behaviors.
Usually Understands — With little or no prompting, person misses some part or intent of the message BUT comprehends most of it. The person may have periodic difficulties integrating information but generally demonstrates comprehension by responding in words or actions.
Often Understands — The person misses some part or intent of the message. However, with prompting (repetition or more detailed explanation), the person often comprehends the conversation.
Sometimes Understands — Demonstrates frequent difficulties integrating information, and responds adequately only to simple and direct questions or directions. When the message is rephrased or simplified, or gestures are used, the person’s comprehension is enhanced.
Rarely or Never Understands — The person demonstrates very limited ability to understand communication, or the assessor cannot determine whether the person comprehends messages, based on his or her verbal and nonverbal responses. Includes situations where the person can hear sounds but does not understand messages