A disabled person is someone with
- the loss of, or lost use of, one or more arms or legs, (paraplegic, quadraplegic)
- the loss of mobility in appendages or a part of the spinal column (neck or back)
- the loss of sight, hearing, or speech
- the loss of a cognitive or reasoning ability
The Americans with Disabilities Act (1990) defines disability more generally, as "a condition which limits a person's ability to function in major life activities - including communication, walking, and self-care - (such as feeding and dressing oneself) - and which is likely to continue indefinitely, resulting in the need for supportive services".
The United States Census Bureau also uses a broad definition of disability, but with additional inclusions. A disabled adult may be one who :
- uses a wheelchair or is a long-term user of a cane, crutches, or a walker
- has difficulty performing one or more functional activities, including seeing, hearing, speaking, lifting/carrying, using stairs, or walking
- has difficulty with one or more activities of daily living (ADLs), including getting around inside the home, getting in or out of bed or a chair, bathing, dressing, eating, and toileting
- has difficulty with one or more instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), including going outside the home, keeping track of money and bills, preparing meals, doing light housework, taking prescription medication in the right amount at the right time, and using the telephone
- has one or more specified conditions, including a learning disability, mental retardation or another developmental disability, Alzheimer's disease, or some other type of mental or emotional condition
- is limited in their ability to do housework.
