Disability Terms & Resources

Understanding common disability terms is essential for fostering inclusion and effective communication. This guide highlights a small selection of the many terms associated with disability, mobility, and the everyday language of wheelchair users. While it’s not exhaustive, it provides a starting point to build awareness and navigate the resources available for those in the disability community.

Accessibility

Accessibility refers to the design of products, environments, programs, or services to be usable by everyone, including people with disabilities. This can include features like wheelchair ramps, accessible websites, or closed captioning on videos. Ensuring accessibility promotes inclusion and equal opportunity in all areas of life.

ADA

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a U.S. civil rights law enacted in 1990 that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, public services, and accommodations. It ensures equal rights and opportunities by requiring reasonable accommodations and accessible facilities, significantly improving accessibility and inclusivity across the United States.

Assistive Technology

Assistive technology encompasses tools, devices, or software that help individuals with disabilities complete tasks they might otherwise find challenging. Examples include screen readers for the visually impaired, hearing aids, or motorized wheelchairs. These tools enable independence and improve quality of life.

Developmental Disability

A developmental disability is a chronic condition that begins before age 22 and affects physical, learning, language, or behavioral development. Examples include autism spectrum disorder, cerebral palsy, and intellectual disabilities. These conditions often require lifelong support but do not diminish an individual’s potential for success.

Disability Inclusion

Disability inclusion is the intentional practice of ensuring that individuals with disabilities have equal access to opportunities, resources, and participation in the workplace and society. It involves creating environments that accommodate diverse needs by removing physical, technological, and social barriers. This can include providing assistive technologies, flexible work arrangements, and fostering a culture that values diversity. Disability inclusion benefits individuals by allowing them to engage in work and social activities fully and enhances businesses and communities by fostering creativity, innovation, and a more diverse workforce.

Reasonable Accommodation

Reasonable accommodation refers to adjustments or modifications in a job, educational setting, or other environment to support individuals with disabilities. Examples include providing ergonomic workstations, allowing flexible schedules, or offering sign language interpreters. These accommodations ensure equitable access and participation.

Security Administration (SSA)

The Social Security Administration (SSA) is a U.S. government agency overseeing various social insurance programs, including disability benefits. In the context of disability, the SSA administers the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs, which provide financial assistance to individuals unable to work due to severe medical conditions. The SSA evaluates claims for disability benefits based on strict criteria, reviewing medical evidence and the severity of the condition to determine eligibility.

Universal Design

Universal design is creating spaces, products, or systems accessible to all people, regardless of age, disability, or other factors. Examples include touchless faucets, curb cuts on sidewalks, and websites designed for screen readers. Universal design benefits everyone by removing barriers to access.