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A disability is any condition of the body or mind that makes it harder to do one or more major life activities and to interact with the world. More than 1 in 4 adults in the United States have some type of disability.
Disabilities can affect:
- vision or hearing
- movement
- thinking, remembering or learning
- communicating
- development
- mental health
- social relationships
People with disabilities have a wide range of needs, and even two people with the same type of disability may be affected very differently. Some disabilities are visible, such as when someone uses a wheelchair. Others are invisible — hard or impossible to see — such as problems with hearing, thinking or learning.
What causes disabilities
Some disabilities are present at birth; others develop later in life.
| Present at birth | Developing later |
|---|---|
| disorders of single genes, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy | injuries, such as spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries and back injuries |
| chromosome disorders, such as Down syndrome | chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, COPD and arthritis |
| exposure before birth to infections or to substances such as drugs, alcohol or cigarettes | cancer, mental health problems, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease and other causes of dementia |
Disability and health
Having a disability doesn't mean a person can't be healthy — many people with disabilities rate their health as good or better. They may, however, have or be at risk of health problems linked to their disability, called secondary conditions:
- bowel or bladder problems
- chronic pain
- diabetes and heart disease
- fatigue
- injuries
- mental health problems, including depression and substance use disorders
- overweight and obesity
- pressure sores or ulcers
Many of these can be prevented, and there are treatments for them. It also matters that people with disabilities get health care that meets their needs as whole people, not only as people with a disability.
Staying healthy
A healthy lifestyle matters just as much with a disability as without one. That means:
- staying physically active;
- eating healthy foods in healthy portions;
- limiting sun exposure and using sunscreen to prevent skin cancer;
- not smoking, and getting help to quit if needed;
- using medicines wisely;
- not drinking alcohol, or drinking only in moderation;
- getting help for substance use or mental health problems;
- keeping in touch with family and friends.
Where to find help
Managing a disability can be hard at times. These can help:
- Assistive devices and mobility aids make daily tasks easier.
- School plans built around a child's specific needs aim to give the child the chance to perform at the same level as others their age.
- Disability organizations and other support networks point you and your family to resources.
- Support groups connect you with people who have the same disability, for emotional and social support and practical tips for everyday challenges.
- Government programs may offer benefits, job training, employment help and protection against discrimination.
Sources
Based on "Disabilities," MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine, drawing on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; a work of the United States government in the public domain.
Лицензия: CC0 1.0 (общественное достояние) · По материалам medlineplus.gov
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