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Functional Capacity

Meaning

Functional capacity is the measurable extent of an individual’s ability to perform the integrated physical, cognitive, and emotional tasks required for a high quality of life, including work, exercise, and self-care. It represents the physiological reserve and maximal output that the body’s systems can achieve and sustain. In clinical practice, assessing this capacity provides a holistic metric of vitality, often serving as a powerful prognostic indicator for healthspan and resilience.