FAQ
About the DWI
1. What is the Disability Wellbeing Index (DWI)?
The DWI is a preference-based tool designed to measure wellbeing from the perspective of people with disability. It captures what matters most to people with disability across key life domains.
2. Who developed the DWI?
The DWI was co-developed by researchers in collaboration with people with disability, disability advocacy organisations, service providers, and policymakers.
3. Why was the DWI created?
The DWI was developed to fill a gap in existing wellbeing measures, which often overlook the specific priorities and lived experiences of people with disability.
Structure and Design
4. What does the DWI measure?
The DWI measures wellbeing across 14 domains, including independence, relationships, community inclusion, safety, dignity, and work.
5. Is the DWI a health-related quality of life measure?
It is a subjective wellbeing measure that includes, but is not limited to, health. It is broader than traditional health-related quality of life tools.
6. How was the DWI developed?
The DWI was developed using mixed methods, including literature review, co-design workshops, focus groups, and a Discrete Choice Experiment (DCE) to generate preference weights.
Scoring and Use
7. How is the DWI scored?
The DWI can be scored using a preference-based algorithm derived from the DCE. Alternative scoring options, such as summative scores (equal or importance-weighted), are also available.
8. What do DWI scores mean?
Higher scores indicate higher levels of wellbeing. Preference-weighted scores reflect the relative importance placed on different life domains by people with disability.
9. Can the DWI be used to assess individual progress?
Yes. The DWI can track changes in an individual’s wellbeing over time or be used to compare wellbeing across groups or service contexts.
10. Can organisations use the DWI to evaluate programs or services?
Absolutely. The DWI is designed to inform policy, practice, and service delivery by providing a wellbeing outcome measure that aligns with the values of people with disability.
Accessibility and Inclusion
11. Is the DWI available in Easy English or accessible formats?
Yes. The DWI is available in multiple formats, including Easy English and screen-reader accessible versions.
12. Can the DWI be self-completed or completed with support?
Both options are available. Individuals can complete the DWI independently or with support from a trusted person or support worker.
Other Questions
13. How does the DWI differ from other wellbeing or health- related quality of life tools like ASCOT or EQ-5D?
Unlike health-related quality of life tools such as the EQ-5D, which focus primarily on health status, or ASCOT, which measures social care-related quality of life, the DWI was developed specifically with and for people with disability. It captures a broader range of domains that reflect key aspects of life identified by people with disability, including relationships, autonomy, participation, safety, home environment, and financial wellbeing, alongside health and personal care. The DWI is designed to provide a comprehensive picture of wellbeing beyond health or service outcomes, making it suitable for disability policy, service evaluation, and research contexts where a holistic view of wellbeing is needed.
14. Who can use the DWI?
The DWI can be used by individuals, researchers, service providers, advocacy organisations, and government bodies to understand and improve disability-related wellbeing outcomes.
15. How can I get access to the DWI?
DWI is a free tool, and you can access DWI versions, including user manual and supporting materials, via dwi.org.au. You have to register to download the DWI versions.
16. Can I change the wording of any of the DWI version?
Please do not change the wording of the DWI versions.