A physical impairment is any condition or problem which makes it difficult for a person to carry out everyday activities without some degree of assistance or adaptation. People with physical impairments often use mobility aids such as crutches, canes, walking frames, wheelchairs, orthotic appliances and artificial limbs to obtain mobility.

Physical disability has many causes. It may be congenital, such as cerebral palsy, or caused by a chronic illness such as multiple sclerosis, arthritis, or diabetes. It may be the result of an infection such as meningitis or polio. Some, often younger people, have accidents or injuries which may damage the brain, nerves and/or muscles. They may suffer from loss of limbs. Strokes are responsiblefor many, usually older, people becoming disabled.

Many people have hidden disabilities such as heart and lung disease, cancer or epilepsy. These conditions may not be apparent but can be very disabling and seriously affect the person’s quality of life.

The majority of people with a mobility impairment are not dependent on a wheelchair. Some may need to use a wheelchair or a mobility scooter intermittently.

Being physically unable to do something does not necessarily cause dependency. People may simply require services to be provided differently. Physical barriers in our society cause the majority of problems for people with physical disabilities, i.e. doorways that are not wide enough, steps, etc.

The effects of physical or mobility impairment can result in a steep learning curve for families. Families should be mindful that while these conditions require adjustments to their lives, they are not insurmountable.

People with mobility difficulties may also have other problems such as sensory difficulties, or in some cases intellectual impairment. For help with communicating with those who are hard of hearing or have visual impairment, please see relevant fact sheet.

Speech impairment might also be a factor.

Wheelchair User

"Wheelchair user" refers to a person using a wheelchair. Never use the terms "wheelchair bound", or "confined to a wheelchair". Wheelchairs enable people to have mobility.

Did you know?

It is estimated that between 59% and 89% of disabled people are wheelchair users.

Different environments can cause different problems for a person with a physical impairment.

Useful Tips

• Don't assume someone wants help - always ask.
• Try to put yourself at the wheelchair user's eye level.
• Speak directly to the person and not their family member or friend.
• Don't lean on or push the wheelchair unless asked to, or have been given permission to do so.
• Offer to open heavy doors.
• Provide a seat for someone who cannot stand for long.

Just a Few Mobility Impairments

Stroke - A common cause of disability and is usually caused by a blood clot forming in the brain. Its effects are variable but often cause a hemiplegia, whth speech difficulties and sometimes emotional changes.

Cerebral Palsy - A disorder usually occurring before, or soemtimes during birth, that prevents sufferers fromcontrolling their muscles normally. This can result in ataxia, poor controlled and involuntary meovements of the muscles which can make everyday activities like walking or holding a cup of tea difficult.

Any combination of muscles can be involved in cerebral palsy, often causing a hemoplegia, but the whole of the body, including control of the hand and neck can be affected. Swallowing can also be a problem. Speech is sometimes difficult, it may be slow and words may be slurred. It may make it difficult for a person to make themselves understood.

Multiple Sclerosis- A disorder of the nervous system that attacks the brain and spinal cord and cause deterioration of the nerve tissue. Symptoms are very varied and depend on which nerves have been affected. There may be paralysis, disorders of speech, changed sensation (e.g. pins and needles or numbness), problems with bladder and bowel control, or visual problems.