Disability Classifications

Disability Terms & Definitions

Disability

A disability, whether mental or physical, is defined as a condition or an impairment that creates barriers which place limitations upon an individual's ability to perform tasks efficiently and effectively as non-disabled persons would. The condition must be documented by a qualified practitioner in order for it to be considered a disability.

Visual Impairment

A visual impairment is a condition whereby the normal structure and functioning of the eye is distorted, resulting in impaired and limited visual use. An individual is considered to have a visual impairment if the acuity is no less than 20/70 in the dominant eye with the best possible correction or if a person's visual field is so limited (20 degrees or less) that it has an affect on the individual's abilities.

Blindness

Blindness is a total loss of vision.

Hearing Impairment

A hearing impairment is a distortion in the ears which causes a loss of hearing to the extent where it interferes with the individual's ability to function competently and effectively. A hearing loss of 30 decibels or greater or a pure tone average of 500, 1000 or 2000 Hz without the use of a hearing aid in the dominant ear is needed in order for a person's hearing to be categorized as an impairment.

Deafness

Deafness is a complete loss of hearing.

Speech Impairment

Speech Impairments are vocal impairments in language, articulation or fluency. Such impairments interfere with one's ability to communicate effectively with other people. These impairments are also likely to interfere with social adjustment and academic learning.

Learning Disability

A learning disability refers to a heterogeneous group of disorders manifested by significant difficulties in the acquisition and use of listening, writing, reasoning or mathematical abilities, or of social skill. Individuals can have either single or multiple learning disabilities.

Psychological Disorder

A psychological disorder is a disorder by which a person's mental, behavioral, or emotional state interferes with his or her ability to function academically and socially.

Mobility Impairment

A mobility impairment is a malfunction in body movement which make it difficult for persons to function adequately. Wheelchair users, for instance, are considered to have mobility impairments.

Neurological Impairment

Chronic Illness