RCIL

The definition of disability set forth in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) does not distinguish between type, severity, or duration of the disability. It states:

“The term ‘disability’ means, with respect to an individual:
(a) a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of the major life activities of such individual;
(b) a record of such impairment; or
(c) being regarded as having such an impairment.”

The ADA definition is inclusive because it tends to capture both the largest and broadest estimate of people with disabilities. It describes a disability as a condition which limits a person’s ability to function in major life activities—including communication, walking, and self-care (such as feeding and dressing oneself)—and which is likely to continue indefinitely, resulting in the need for supportive services.

It’s important to note that disabilities may be readily observed or “hidden” (such as epilepsy, arthritis, and diabetes), and may result from a variety of causes.

Generally, disabilities fall into the following types:

Mobility Impairment
Mobility impairment refers to the inability of a person to use one or more of his/her extremities, or a lack of strength to walk, grasp, or lift objects. The use of a wheelchair, crutches, or a walker may be utilized to aid in mobility.

Cognitive Impairment
Cognitive impairment affects a person’s ability to reason, understand, and learn. Cognitive disabilities are separated into two categories: learning disabilities and mental retardation.

Hearing Impairment
Hearing impairment ranges from mild hearing loss to total deafness. Those who are hard of hearing often use their residual hearing and lip read when communicating face-to-face. People who are deaf may use American Sign Language or lip-read, and may speak for themselves or use a sign-language interpreter.

Visual Impairment
Visual impairment affects a person’s ability to see, and includes: (1) inability to see images clearly and distinctly; (2) loss of visual field; (3) inability to detect small changes in brightness; (4) color blindness; and (5) sensitivity to light. A cane or sight dog may be used to assist with mobility, and/or Braille may be used to read.

Speech Impairment
Speech impairment ranges from problems with articulation or voice strength to having no voice at all. People with speech impairments may have difficulty in projection, articulation and fluency. Some people with speech impairments may use assistive devices or an interpreter to communicate.