# What is a disability? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hiya-ala-iqa Language: en Category: rehabilitation Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.474Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:51.474Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-hiya-ala-iqa A disability is any condition that affects the body or mind, making it difficult for an individual to perform one or more basic life activities and interact with their surrounding environment [\[1\]](). Having a disability does not necessarily mean a person is unhealthy; many people with disabilities are just as healthy, or even healthier, than others [\[1\]](). However, they may be more susceptible to certain health issues related to their disability, known as "secondary conditions" [\[1\]](). ## Dimensions of Disability According to the World Health Organization, disability involves three main dimensions [\[2\]](): - **Impairment:** Refers to a problem in body structure or function, whether physical or mental. Examples include loss of a limb, vision impairment, or memory loss [\[2\]](). - **Activity Limitation:** These are difficulties an individual faces in performing daily tasks and activities, such as difficulty seeing, hearing, walking, or problem-solving [\[2\]](). - **Participation Restrictions:** These relate to difficulties that prevent an individual from fully engaging in various life roles, such as work, education, or social and recreational activities [\[2\]](). ## Types of Disabilities Disabilities vary significantly and affect different aspects of an individual's life [\[1\]](). Disabilities can include those affecting: - Vision [\[1\]]() - Hearing [\[1\]]() - Mobility [\[1\]]() - Thinking [\[1\]]() - Remembering [\[1\]]() - Learning [\[1\]]() - Communication [\[1\]]() - Development [\[1\]]() - Mental health [\[1\]]() - Social relationships [\[1\]]() Some disabilities are "visible" and easy to notice, such as the use of a wheelchair, while others are "invisible" or hidden, such as hearing, thinking, or learning problems [\[1\]](). ## Causes of Disability Disabilities can be present from birth or occur later in life [\[1\]](). Causes of disabilities present at birth include: - Single gene disorders, such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy [\[1\]](). - Chromosomal disorders, such as Down syndrome [\[1\]](). - Exposure to certain infections or substances (such as medications, alcohol, or cigarettes) before birth [\[1\]](). Disabilities that occur later in life may be caused by [\[1\]](): - Injuries, such as spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries [\[1\]](). - Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and arthritis [\[1\]](). - Cancer [\[1\]](). - Mental health issues [\[1\]](). - Stroke [\[1\]](). - Alzheimer's disease and other causes of dementia [\[1\]](). ## Healthy Living with a Disability It is important for people with disabilities to adopt a healthy lifestyle, just like everyone else, to maintain their health. This includes [\[1\]](): - Regular physical activity [\[1\]](). - Eating healthy foods in appropriate amounts [\[1\]](). - Limiting sun exposure and using sunscreen [\[1\]](). - Not smoking, and seeking help to quit if necessary [\[1\]](). - Using medications wisely [\[1\]](). - Not drinking alcohol or drinking in moderation [\[1\]](). - Seeking help for any issues related to substance abuse or mental health [\[1\]](). - Staying connected with family and friends [\[1\]](). People with disabilities may face additional challenges in maintaining a healthy weight, such as difficulty accessing healthy food options or environments suitable for exercise [\[3\]](). It is important to provide the necessary support and resources to enable them to live a healthy and active life. To learn more about available support in Jordan, you can visit [Living with Disability: Support for Individuals and Families in Jordan (Arabic)](). ## Medical references - [Disabilities]() - [Disability and Health Overview]() - [Disability and Obesity]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hiya-ala-iqa#answer