Definition and Types of Disabilities

Definition of Disability

Disability refers to a physical or mental condition that limits an individual's movements, senses, or activities. It is a multifaceted concept that encompasses a wide range of conditions that can impact a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks and participate fully in society. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines disability as an umbrella term covering impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions. Impairment is a problem in body function or structure, an activity limitation is a difficulty encountered by an individual in executing a task or action, and a participation restriction is a problem experienced by an individual in involvement in life situations.

Types of Disabilities

Disabilities can be broadly categorized into the following types, though it’s important to note that individuals may experience multiple forms simultaneously:

1.Physical Disabilities: These involve the impairment of physical functioning or mobility. Common examples include:

i.Mobility impairments: Conditions affecting movement, such as paralysis, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and amputation.

ii.Spinal cord injuries: Damage to any part of the spinal cord or nerves at the end of the spinal canal.