Key Terms
Physical disability
A disability that impacts a person's ability to perform physical tasks or function in a physical way.
Cerebral palsy
A developmental disorder resulting in physical disability; involves difficulty with motor coordination and muscle use.
Injury-related disability
Caused by accident, injury, or trauma.
Progressive diseases
Conditions that worsen over time and can result in physical disability.
Permanent disability
Present for the person's entire life.
Temporary disability
Present for only a short period; person recovers full or near-normal function.
ADLs
Activities of daily living; the routine self-care tasks a person must perform each day.
Adaptive equipment
Special equipment used to help a person with a physical disability function as independently as possible.
Prosthetic device
A specially made and fitted artificial limb or body part; used to improve appearance and ability to function.
Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist
Team members who help patients and HHA/PCAs learn about and use adaptive equipment.
Support system
Any person or group who provides emotional or physical support, including help completing tasks.
Stressors
Anything that causes stress, anxiety, frustration, anger, or depression.
Total care
Complete assistance with all ADLs; the HHA/PCA provides all physical care.
Recuperating
Healing; recovering from injury or illness.
Socialization
The ability to interact with other people.