Defining Disability

Introduction
Defining Disability
Disability is a relative term which can be best defined in context of perfection. If we believe that nobody is perfect then the fact remains that nobody is disabled. Disability can be broadly seen from two different perspectives; medical and social (disabled-world). It cannot be seen entirely from the medical perspective. A social outlook is equally important to not only define and understand disability but also to find solutions for the people with disabilities. The model based on the pathologies and includes individuals with certain physical, intellectual, psychological and mental conditions or in simpler words it can be said that the abnormal conditions themselves are the cause of all restrictions of activities.

Technology solutions in the form of assistive, adaptive and rehabilitative aids and devices for PwDs can bridge the gap between ability and disability by enhancing the functional capabilities of PwDs. Assistive technologies when appropriate to the user and the user’s environment promotes greater independence by enabling people to perform tasks that they were previously unable to pull off or had great obscurity accomplishing them without draining much

But PwDs may not have an access to all of the assistive devices/technologies available. According to a report by WHO, in many low and middle income countries, only 5%-15% of people who require assistive devices and technologies have an access to them (5WHO and The World Bank Report, 2011). The Article 4 of General Obligations:1(h) of United Nation’s Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (6UN Report, 2006), ratified by India makes it obligatory to provide accessible information to PwDs about mobility aids, devices, assistive technologies as well as other forms of assistance, support services and facilities. Also, it emphasizes to undertake or promote research and development of assistive technology so that the same can be made available at an affordable