Acquired Disability

Definition

An acquired disability is a type of disability that occurs after birth due to injury, illness, or other health conditions, as opposed to being present at birth. This can include a range of physical, sensory, and cognitive impairments that arise from various causes such as accidents, diseases, or environmental factors. Understanding acquired disabilities is essential as they reflect the dynamic nature of disability and the potential for change in individuals' lives over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Acquired disabilities can happen at any stage of life and are often the result of accidents, strokes, infections, or diseases like multiple sclerosis or cancer.
2. The impact of an acquired disability varies widely depending on the individual's circumstances, including the type and severity of the disability.
3. Many people with acquired disabilities require various forms of support, such as physical therapy, assistive devices, or counseling services to help adapt to their new circumstances.
4. Acquired disabilities challenge societal perceptions of disability by illustrating that anyone can experience significant changes in their abilities at any time.
5. Awareness and understanding of acquired disabilities are essential for fostering inclusive environments that support individuals in their adjustment and rehabilitation.

Review Questions

• How do acquired disabilities differ from congenital disabilities in terms of their onset and impact on individuals?
  • Acquired disabilities occur after birth due to injury or illness, while congenital disabilities are present at birth. The onset of acquired disabilities can create a sudden shift in an individual's life and may necessitate immediate adjustments in lifestyle, social interactions, and identity. In contrast, those with congenital disabilities often have had more time to adapt to their condition from an early age. The impact on individuals can also differ; acquired disabilities may lead to a sense of loss or grief due to the abrupt change in abilities.
• Discuss the societal implications of acquired disabilities and how they challenge traditional views of ability.
  • Acquired disabilities highlight the idea that disability is not solely a lifelong condition but can emerge unexpectedly due to life events. This challenges traditional views that define ability as static and encourages society to recognize the fluidity of human capability. Additionally, understanding acquired disabilities fosters empathy and awareness, prompting communities to create more inclusive spaces that accommodate varying needs. This shift in perspective is crucial for dismantling stigmas surrounding disability and emphasizing that anyone can become disabled at any point in life.
• Evaluate the role of rehabilitation services in the lives of individuals with acquired disabilities and how these services contribute to their quality of life.
  • Rehabilitation services play a vital role in assisting individuals with acquired disabilities by providing tailored support that enhances their functioning and independence. These services can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, and assistive technologies designed to help individuals regain skills or adapt to new ways of living. By focusing on individual goals and needs, rehabilitation services contribute significantly to improving the quality of life for those with acquired disabilities. They empower individuals to navigate daily challenges more effectively, foster social inclusion, and promote overall well-being, which is essential for adapting to the changes brought about by their conditions.

Related terms

Congenital Disability: A disability that is present at birth, which can be caused by genetic factors, environmental influences during pregnancy, or complications during birth.

Chronic Illness: A long-lasting health condition that may lead to functional limitations and can contribute to acquired disabilities, often affecting an individual's quality of life.

Rehabilitation: A process aimed at enabling individuals with disabilities to achieve optimal functioning and independence, often crucial for those with acquired disabilities.