Disabilities

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The World Health Organisation defines the term ‘disability’ as a term which covers a huge spectrum of impairments, activity limitations and participation restrictions.

An impairment is classed as a problem in body function or structure. An activity limitation is something that causes difficulties when undertaking a task or actions. Participation restriction causes difficulties when undertaking day to day tasks.

Types of disability

Disabilities can be physical, cognitive, sensory, emotional, developmental or a combination of all.

A disability can be present at birth, or occur later in life, depending on the nature of it.

In 1995 the Disability Discrimination Act was passed, making it unlawful for employers to discriminate against someone on the grounds of their disability. The Employers’ Forum on Disability is an organisation made up of UK business that measure performance on disability, awarding prizes for the best companies.

Below is a comprehensive list of different categories of disability:

• mobility and physical
• spinal cord
• head injuries/brain disability
• vision
• hearing
• cognitive or learning
• psychological
• Autistic spectrum disorders
• chronic pain
• learning difficulty
• chronic medical condition eg diabetes, epilepsy
• Down’s Syndrome
• arthritis
• restricted height
• Cerebral Palsy

In order to be classed as a disability the problem must be permanent and ongoing, and have been present for 12 months or more.

Symptoms

A disability could be a wide range of health problems, ailments, illnesses or conditions. Below are some of the most common disabilities.

Spinal cord disabilities

Multiple Sclerosis (MS)

MS is a progressive disease that attacks the central nervous system, blocking the transmission of motor signals to the limbs. Symptoms may include muscle weakness and spasming, problems with speech, vision, and emotional instability, resulting in depression or mood swings. There is no cure, however it is possible to help reduce the frequency and severity of replapses.

Spina Bifida

Spina Bifida is cause by a birth defect, when the spinal column does not close properly. It ranges from mild to severe, with the worst symptoms including muscle weakness, paralysis or loss of sensation below the spine, and loss of bowel and bladder control.

Autistic Spectrum Disabilities

Autism

Autism is a developmental disability which results in impaired social interaction and communication. The problem develops before a child is three years old, and it is thought Autism is caused by a genetic mutation. Symptoms include repetitive behaviour, such as a movement, compulsive behaviour, such as arranging objects in stacks or lines, a lack of speech development, and difficulty or lack or communication skills.

Asperger’s/ Asperger Syndrome

Asperger’s and Autism are very closely linked, and it can be difficult to diagnose. However, it is thought Asperger’s may be hereditary. The symptoms are almost identical, but they may be less severe, and fewer. Asperger’s is at the milder end of the Autistic Spectrum.

Cerebral Palsy

Cerebral Palsy is a physical disability caused by damage to the motor controls in the brain. This causes involuntary movements, poor muscle tone and problems with balance and coordination. Sufferers may not be able to walk.

Down’s Syndrome

Down’s Syndrome is caused by the presence of an extra chromosome, and is present in the womb. Symptoms include impaired cognitive ability and physical growth, a specific set of facial features and delayed development. Symptoms can range from mild to severe.

Arthritis

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints. There are around 200 different types. It can be a mild inconvenience, or can make getting around very difficult or impossible. It can affect everyone, not just older people. There are many ways of helping to manage arthritis and minimise its impact on every day life.

Causes

Different disabilities have different causes. Some are caused by accidents which can result in a spinal injury, amputation, or a brain injury. Some disabilities are present in the womb, such as Down’s Syndrome, or may be caused by complications during birth, such as an interruption of the oxygen supply to the brain. Premature birth may also cause some disabilities.

During pregnancy, smoking, drinking and drug taking can cause a disability to develop either in the womb or later in the child’s life.

Genetics and genetic abnormalities can be the cause for some disabilities.

Abuse and trauma can also cause a disability.

When is the right time to seek help?

Whether the disability develops early or later in life, there are many avenues of support available for both the individual and their family.

For those who are unable to work, there are several kinds of benefits available, as well as people on hand to help claim for them. The NHS provide a range of support services to help manage disabilities. For those studying, universities will offer student services to help the individual get the right support throughout their studies, whether that be accommodation or help with learning.

For those caring for someone with a disability, there is also support available. Particularly in the case of severe disabilities, it is important that the carer is able to have a break. There are carer’s centres all over the country where carers can go to meet other carers and take some time out. There are many charities which provide support for carers.

Treatment

Many disabilities cannot be cured, however using a variety of treatments they can be managed to help try and reduce the impact the disability has on the individual’s day to day life.

Alternative therapies are often used, as well as traditional medicine. Counselling can provide support to those with disabilities, as well as their partners and family.

Statistics

• most people who have a disability develop it later in life – only 17% of disabilities are present at birth
• there are at least 650 million people with a disability worldwide
• 50% of disabled people of working age are in work, compared with 80% of non disabled people
• 7 million people of working age in Great Britain have a disability

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