Autonomy level and functional parameters: Autonomy was
assessed using the Katz’s index of Independence in Activities of
Daily Living (ADLs) that counts the number of ADLs a person needs
help with (control of urination and bowel movements, autonomy in
feeding, bathing, dressing, toileting and autonomy in transfer).19
The forearm flexor muscle strength, expressed in kilograms, was
tested using the Lafayette’s dynamometer, Mod. 78011. The test was
performed using the dominant arm, except in hemiplegic patients,
in whom the contralateral arm was considered.