7. Empirical referents
As the final step of the concept analysis, determining empirical referents for the critical attributes of functional status will help to further clarify the concept and
provide the basis for operating the concept. Empirical referents are ‘‘classes or categories of actual phenomena that by their existence or presence demonstrate the
occurrence of the concept itself’’ (p. 46).
Functional status can be best represented by actual activities performed in various aspects of life, which include personal care, ambulation, household activity, recreational activity, and community participation.
The list of activity categories is not meant to be exclusive or exhausted; activities, which are essential for daily living in supporting human needs, should be included in
the list.