Disability is a complicated and multifaceted issue. It is important to understand the various types and characteristics of disability. This article examines the impact of disability on society and the role that media can play in bringing awareness. In addition to the above issues, it focuses on the ways organizations can ensure that their policies and practices are inclusive of individuals with disabilities.
Disability characteristics
Depending on the definition, disability is classified into two categories. The first category is primary disabilities while the second is a mix of newly recognized and established disabilities. According to a study done by Kiernan (1986) about 1.5 percent of adults are disabled. A more general definition would suggest that disability is a prevalence rate between one and three percent.
The study showed an extremely significant correlation between disability levels and limitations in activity. It also revealed a connection between activity limitations and difficulties in completing activities. These findings suggest that disabilities can progress in a systematic way. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings. The hierarchical model that is described in this article must be tested in longitudinal studies to better understand the progression of disabilities.
The cause of disability can be psychiatric, psychological or neurological. No matter the cause disabled people require constant support to live an active life. Physical disabilities are usually caused by diseases or conditions that affect the respiratory, circulatory, musculoskeletal, or nervous systems. It is not uncommon to have more than one type.
An intellectual impairment is a condition that can cause a person to experience significant slowing in their development. They may not be able to communicate effectively or speak clearly and may require the assistance of a professional and family. They may be able learn basic self-care and daily routines. Individuals with severe intellectual disability might also be afflicted by physical limitations. Their physical condition may cause them to need strict supervision, whereas their mental abilities may not be severely impaired.
The study also found that people with disabilities are considerably less fortunate than the general population. The median household income for people with disabilities was between 40 and 45 percent lower than people without disabilities. A third of the disabled lived in poverty or close to poverty. However the study did not explicitly define working age.
The SIPP-based definition of developmental disabilities provides a more precise understanding of the different types of disabilities. The SIPP-based definitions of developmental disabilities are only a rough guide. However, they offer confidence that people who have disabilities will be correctly identified.
Models of disability
Models of disability are used to define impairment, and give society a framework for dealing with persons with disabilities. There are many models, but each model focuses on a specific area of disability. These models can demonstrate how society provides or refuses access to work or goods and services, and how power is distributed among people who are disabled.
Similar to the functional models and medical model, disability is conceptualized as an impairment or deficit in the functional model. In this model, impairments can result from physical or cognitive limitations that hinder an individual’s ability to perform everyday activities. This model can be used to determine and evaluate the functioning of individuals.
The spectrum model is yet another model of disability. The model describes the individual’s range of vision and audibility as well as sensibility. It suggests that a person’s disability is not a negative trait however, it is an assortment of traits that limit a person’s capabilities. Disability studies have also examined other aspects besides physical disabilities. They also considered economic, cultural or social factors that may affect a person’s ability perform certain tasks.
Philosophers have also been a part of the debates surrounding disability. Traditionally, they have been involved in debates over the definition of impairment and disability, and have also asked fundamental questions about the meaning of the terms. Despite this, discussions on disability have mainly focused on definitional issues, or “models” of disability.
Begon for instance is adamant that a nonpathologizing impairment of the sense is too narrow and cannot distinguish between various types of disabilities that are not justifiably denied. Similar to that, Kingma has argued that the specificity of disability definitions may trivialize functional typicality. Begon adds that women and men are treated differently and that the definition of disability for men differs than that for women.
Social impact of disability
A growing number of people are afflicted by disability. According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2005, 54.4 million Americans had disabilities and 35.0 million were suffering from severe disabilities. As the population gets older and the number of people with disabilities increases, it is expected to rise significantly. The number of people living with disabilities will reach 69.4 millions by 2030, which makes them a rapidly growing demographic.disability services melbourne
Disability is often linked to a wide range of economic and social disadvantages. A total of 4.5 million Americans live with disabilities that are developmental. These individuals, as well as half the 2.3 million who suffer from intellectual disabilities, are faced with multiple barriers to living and participating in society.
In addition to financial and structural barriers, people with disabilities face a variety of physical and mental health problems. They have poorer health status and have a lack of access to health treatment. In the United States, a lack of comprehensive coverage in the commercial health insurance causes inequal health outcomes for people with disabilities. A very dispersed system of health care makes it difficult for people with disabilities to access the right treatment.
Health care costs that are higher are associated with disabilities, as well as an increased risk of developing secondary conditions. People with disabilities are less likely than the general population to receive preventive health care. They also require health services more frequently and are more likely to develop secondary ailments. This is in part due to the particular barriers that limit access to healthcare like health care providers’ suspicion of those with disabilities.
Recent research conducted by the NCD entitled “The Present State of Health Care for people with disabilities” identified national issues and provided recommendations to Congress, Administration, and other stakeholders. The study also suggests ways to improve access to health care and improve health outcomes for people who have disabilities.
Media’s role in raising awareness of disabilities
The media can play an important role in raising awareness about disability. It can combat ableist beliefs by telling stories of people with disabilities coming together and rebuffing systems of discrimination. Additionally media can assist in the creation of policies that are in favor of PWD. For example, the Kenyan government is currently working on a new constitution, but the current constitution doesn’t have a specific definition of disability. The 2003 Persons with Disabilities Act defines disability as any impairment that negatively affects a person’s economic or social participation. Chapter 5 of the constitution guarantees citizens their rights and liberties, including the dignity and rights of disabled people.
Journalists need to be aware of the impact stories can have on the disabled community. When discussing a tragic incident, for example, it is important to focus on the victims and not on the perpetrators. A tragedy involving disabled children is often reported with a focus upon parents, who are typically considered to be “poor”. Moreover, audiences are left to make excuses for the perpetrators, while ignoring the disabled victims of that tragedy. It is a fact that victims of tragedy who are disabled are often seen as burdens and treated as a nuisance.
It is crucial that the media plays a role in raising awareness of disability. Through accurate coverage of disability issues, people are able to combat stigmas and enhance policies to better serve their requirements. In addition media can help empower disabled individuals through education as well as advocacy and training. It can also help bring attention to issues related to domestic abuse and institutionalization, which can help create a more inclusive society.
The Centre for Media Studies conducted an investigation to determine the role of the media in promoting awareness about disabilities in India. Interviews were conducted with people who were involved in creating awareness-generating programs and public service ads. The researchers of the study suggest that the lack of awareness regarding disability is partly due to an ineffective dissemination process.
Media images of persons with disabilities have a profound impact on how we think and behave. They can help us fight negative stereotypes and boost self-esteem. The media can be used to draw attention to these images and build an inclusive society.