A permanent disability refers to a long-lasting, typically lifelong, functional impairment that significantly affects daily life. It can result from a birth defect, disease, or injury, with the specific term for one's condition varying based on the cause and extent of the impairment. To understand what is called a permanent disability, we need to delve into the different categories and specific terms used to describe various conditions.
According to the Social Security Administration (SSA), a permanent disability in the U.S. is defined as a medically determinable physical or mental impairment that is expected to last at least one year or result in death. However, the term 'permanent' can sometimes be misleading, as some conditions may be progressive or variable over time. This article explores the terminology used to describe permanent disabilities, their categories, and some typical examples.
Categorizing Permanent Disabilities
The University of Washington's Disability Services Office categorizes disabilities into four primary groups: physical, sensory, mental health, and learning. Understanding these categories can help in identifying the terminology used to describe permanent disabilities.
While these categories are not exhaustive and some conditions may overlap, they provide a broad overview. Each category encompasses various specific conditions, which can be referred to as disabilities in and of themselves. For instance, within the physical disabilities category, one might refer to a specific condition such as spina bifida or multiple sclerosis.
Physical Disabilities
Physical disabilities refer to impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities, such as walking, climbing stairs, reaching, lifting, or carrying. Examples include:
- Spina Bifida: A neural tube defect present at birth that affects the spinal cord and nerves.
- Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A neurological disease in which the immune system eats away at the protective covers of nerves.
- Spinal Cord Injury (SCI): An injury to any portion of the spinal cord that results in a change, temporary or permanent, in its function.
Sensory Disabilities
Sensory disabilities refer to impairments in vision, hearing, or both. These conditions can significantly impact daily life, communication, and learning. Some examples include:
- Visual Impairment or Blindness: A condition that affects a person's ability to see, ranging from low vision to total blindness.
- Hearing Impairment or Deafness: A condition that affects a person's ability to hear, ranging from mild to profound hearing loss or total deafness.
Specific Medical Terms for Permanent Disabilities
In the medical field, permanent disabilities are often described using specific, clinical terms. These terms convey the cause, nature, and extent of the impairment. They are crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and ensuring individuals receive appropriate accommodations and support.
For instance, a person with a permanent mobility impairment might be referred to as having:
Paraplegia
Paraplegia is a term used when both legs are paralyzed, often due to an injury or disease affecting the spinal cord. It can range from partial to complete paralysis.
Paraplegia can be further classified as:
- Complete: No muscle movement or sensation below the waist.
- Incomplete: Some muscle movement and sensation below the waist.
Quadriplegia
Quadriplegia, also known as tetraplegia, refers to paralysis affecting all four limbs. This condition results from an injury or disease affecting the spinal cord, usually in the neck area.
Quadriplegia can impact the body in various ways, including:
- Loss of muscle control and sensation in the arms, hands, trunk, and legs.
- Difficulty with breathing and coughing.
- Changes in bladder, bowel, and sexual function.
Permanent disabilities significantly impact an individual's life, affecting not only their physical abilities but also their emotional and psychological well-being. It is crucial to use accurate, respectful, and person-first language when referring to individuals with disabilities. Always refer to an individual as a person with a disability, rather than a disabled person.
The path to understanding and acceptance of permanent disabilities is a journey, built on awareness, education, and open dialogue. By exploring and understanding the terminology used to describe permanent disabilities, we pave the way for a more inclusive, empathetic, and supportive society.