Disability status

A self-identification framework that lets members describe whether and how they experience disability, drawing on contemporary disability-rights and accessibility conventions. It groups people by broad, self-reported categories of physical, sensory, cognitive, mental-health, and chronic conditions rather than by medical diagnosis.

This is a self-identification field for inclusion and accessibility purposes, not a clinical diagnosis or medical record, and people may identify with more than one category or none. (Modern accessibility and disability-rights self-identification practice (late 20th–21st century), informed by the social model of disability)

Groups

• No disability — The member does not currently identify as having a disability.
• Mobility or physical disability — The member identifies with a condition affecting movement, dexterity, or physical functioning, which may involve mobility aids or physical accommodations.
• Blind or low vision — The member is blind or has low vision and may use screen readers, magnification, braille, or other visual accommodations.
• Deaf or hard of hearing — The member is Deaf or hard of hearing and may use sign language, captions, or other communication accommodations.
• Cognitive or learning disability — The member identifies with a condition that affects learning, memory, attention, or information processing, such as dyslexia or a related difference.
• Mental health condition — The member identifies with a mental health condition, such as an anxiety, mood, or other psychological condition that affects daily life.
• Chronic illness or chronic pain — The member lives with a long-term illness or persistent pain that may affect energy, stamina, or daily functioning.
• Speech or communication disability — The member identifies with a condition affecting speech or communication and may use augmentative or alternative communication methods.
• Neurological condition — The member identifies with a neurological condition, such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, or a related condition affecting the nervous system.
• Multiple disabilities — The member identifies with two or more disabilities that together shape their experience and accessibility needs.
• Prefer to self-describe — The member prefers to describe their disability status in their own terms rather than selecting a listed category.

Related topics

• Accessibility that matters to you
• Visible or invisible
• How you understand disability
• Language you prefer for disability
• Functional domains (Washington Group)

All topics on ArtaQuest