When we hear the term “disability,” we may think of someone in a wheelchair or using a cane. However, disabilities come in many forms and affect people in various ways. They can be physical, mental, sensory, or a combination of these.
Understanding the most common disabilities can help us create a more inclusive world. Here are the top 10 disabilities that people may experience.
1. Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that affects the joints, which are the parts of the body where bones meet. It causes pain, swelling, and stiffness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 58 million adults in the United States have arthritis.
2. Heart Disease
Heart disease refers to several types of heart conditions, with coronary artery disease being the most common. This disease affects blood flow to the heart and can lead to heart attacks. It’s a leading cause of death and can disable someone by limiting their ability to perform everyday activities.
3. Respiratory Disorders
Respiratory disorders are conditions that affect the lungs and breathing. This includes asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The American Lung Association states that over 25 million Americans have asthma.
4. Mood Disorders
Mood disorders include conditions like depression and bipolar disorder. These mental health conditions affect a person’s emotional state and ability to function day-to-day. The National Institute of Mental Health states that major depression is one of the most common mental disorders in the U.S.
5. Diabetes
Diabetes is a condition where the body does not properly process food for use as energy. The CDC reports that more than 37 million Americans have diabetes. Complications from diabetes can lead to blindness, kidney failure, and poor circulation, leading to amputations.
6. Hearing Impairment
Hearing impairment can range from mild hearing loss to complete deafness. It can affect communication and be a barrier to education and employment. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders, approximately 15% of American adults report some trouble hearing.
7. Vision Impairment
Vision impairment includes disorders like cataracts and glaucoma that can significantly reduce someone’s eyesight. According to the CDC, more than 12 million Americans over age 40 experience some form of visual impairment.
8. Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism is a developmental disorder affecting communication and behavior. The CDC reports that about 1 in 54 children are identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder. It can affect the ability to speak, interact socially, and move.
9. Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is the most common motor disability in childhood, with the CDC estimating that about 1 in 345 children have been identified with cerebral palsy.
10. Spinal Cord Injuries
A spinal cord injury usually occurs from a blow that fractures or dislocates your vertebrae. It can permanently change strength, sensation, and other bodily functions below the injury site. The National Spinal Cord Injury Statistical Center estimates that there are about 17,900 new spinal cord injury cases each year in the U.S.
Understanding these disabilities helps us appreciate the challenges that millions of people face each day. By being aware, we can make our communities more accessible and inclusive.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help With Your Disability Claim
Personal injury lawyers can play a vital role in helping people with disabilities, mainly if their condition was caused by someone else’s negligence. For instance, if someone is injured in a car accident and suffers from a spinal cord injury, a lawyer can help them seek compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation, and more.
Living with a disability can have a significant impact on a person’s life. Skilled attorneys are dedicated to securing clients’ compensation and offering support to lead fulfilling lives. Whether it’s a case of medical malpractice, a workplace injury, or an accident on the road, an experienced attorney can help.
Disabilities can take many forms and affect everyone differently. From physical conditions like arthritis and cerebral palsy to sensory impairments like hearing and vision loss and mental health challenges such as mood disorders, understanding these common disabilities can foster empathy and support.
By knowing more about the top 10 disabilities, we can work towards a society that offers help and possibilities for everyone, regardless of their challenges. Suppose you or a loved one is dealing with a disability due to an accident or negligence. In that case, seeking legal assistance can help ensure a better quality of life.
Contact a Louisiana Personal Injury Attorney from Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
For more information, please contact Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers at (225) 263-4787 to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer today. We have three convenient locations in Louisiana, including Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Lafayette.
We proudly serve East Baton Rouge Parish, Lafayette Parish, Orleans Parish, and its surrounding areas:
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Baton Rouge Office
404 Europe Street
Baton Rouge, Louisiana, 70124
(225) 263-4787
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – New Orleans Office
318 Harrison Avenue Suite 107
New Orleans, Louisiana, 70802
(504) 294-3804
Mansfield Melancon Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers – Lafayette Office
1318 Camellia Boulevard Suite 206
Lafayette, Louisiana, 70508
(337) 473-2991