Person With Disability

Definition

A person with a disability is someone who has a physical or mental impairment that significantly limits one or more major life activities. Disabilities can affect mobility, communication, cognition, vision, hearing, or other functions essential for daily life. These impairments may be permanent, temporary, or episodic.

Language and Terminology

Use respectful, person-first language—such as "a person with a disability"—to avoid defining someone solely by their condition. Terms like "the disability community" are more inclusive than alternatives like "the disabled."

Types of Disabilities

Disabilities vary widely in form and impact.

Physical Disabilities

These impair mobility or other bodily functions. Examples: spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy.

Sensory Disabilities

These affect sight, hearing, or touch. Examples: blindness, deafness, color blindness.

Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

These begin in childhood and affect cognitive processes. Examples: autism, Down syndrome.

Mental Health Conditions

These involve psychological or emotional impairments that disrupt daily life. Examples: anxiety, depression, schizophrenia.

Legal Definitions

The ADA (U.S.) defines disability as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits major life activities. The ACA (Canada) defines it as any impairment that interacting with a barrier limits full participation. AODA (Ontario) includes actual or perceived conditions. The EAA (EU) uses the UN CRPD framework.

Impact on Accessibility and Digital Inclusion

Many people with disabilities use assistive technologies such as screen readers, voice recognition, or keyboard navigation. Ensuring web and digital content is accessible removes barriers to participation. Sites must follow WCAG, which includes requirements such as alt text, keyboard-friendly navigation, and sufficient color contrast.