Disability
A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
Under the ADA, disability is defined as:
1. A physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, OR 2. A record of such an impairment, OR 3. Being regarded as having such an impairment
Major life activities include: - Walking, seeing, hearing, speaking - Breathing, learning, thinking, concentrating - Working, caring for oneself - Major bodily functions (immune system, digestive, neurological, etc.)
The ADA Amendments Act of 2008 broadened this definition significantly. The determination should not demand extensive analysis. If an impairment substantially limits a major life activity, that's generally sufficient.
Temporary impairments may qualify if sufficiently severe. Conditions that are episodic or in remission qualify if they would substantially limit a major life activity when active.
ernesty's perspective: ernesty views disability through the social model: a disability is a limitation that intersects with a barrier. The barrier is the problem, not the person.
Related Terms
ernesty provides general information and tools to help you understand and organize your situation. It is not legal advice, and it is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney about your specific circumstances.