1.2. Outline conditions which cause disability

This guide will help you answer 1.2. Outline conditions which cause disability.

As a support worker, understanding different conditions that cause disability is essential for providing effective care. Disabilities can arise from various conditions, and each one presents unique challenges. Here’s a look at these conditions.

Physical Disabilities

Musculoskeletal Disorders

Conditions affecting the muscles, bones, and joints can cause physical disabilities.

• Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints leading to pain and mobility issues.
• Osteoporosis: Weakened bones prone to fractures.
• Cerebral Palsy: Affects posture and movement because of brain damage before or during birth.

Neurological Disorders

Disorders of the nervous system can result in disabilities.

• Multiple Sclerosis (MS): A disorder affecting brain and spinal cord communication.
• Epilepsy: Causes recurrent seizures leading to neurological impairments.
• Parkinson’s Disease: A progressive disorder affecting movement and coordination.

Sensory Disabilities

Vision Impairments

Conditions causing loss or reduction of vision:

• Cataracts: Clouding of the lens in the eye.
• Glaucoma: Pressure buildup damaging the optic nerve.
• Retinitis Pigmentosa: A genetic disorder causing loss of vision.

Hearing Impairments

Loss or reduction in hearing can stem from:

• Congenital Deafness: Present from birth because of genetic factors.
• Age-related Hearing Loss: Gradual loss of hearing over time.
• Tinnitus: Continuous ringing or noise in the ears.

Cognitive Disabilities

Developmental Disorders

Conditions that affect cognitive development.

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Affecting communication and behaviour.
• Down Syndrome: A genetic chromosome disorder impacting intellectual ability.
• Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): Impacts concentration and self-control.

Learning Disabilities

These affect the ability to acquire knowledge:

• Dyslexia: Difficulty with reading despite normal intelligence.
• Dyscalculia: Challenges with maths and number understanding.
• Dysgraphia: Affects writing abilities and fine motor skills.

Mental Health Disorders

Mood Disorders

They can hinder daily functioning.

• Depression: Persistent sadness that affects daily life.
• Bipolar Disorder: Extreme mood swings affecting energy and activity levels.
• Anxiety Disorders: Excessive fear or worry impacting daily tasks.

Psychotic Disorders

These can alter perception.

• Schizophrenia: Affects thought processes, leading to hallucinations and delusions.
• Schizoaffective Disorder: Symptoms of both schizophrenia and mood disorder.

Chronic Illnesses

Cardiovascular Diseases

Conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels:

• Stroke: Interruption of blood supply to the brain, causing paralysis or speech problems.
• Heart Disease: Includes conditions like heart attacks, which can be debilitating.

Respiratory Conditions

Impact breathing and physical capability:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): Long-term damage to the lungs causing breathing difficulties.
• Asthma: Inflames and narrows airways, restricting airflow.

Genetic and Congenital Disorders

Genetic Conditions

These are inherited and affect physical or cognitive functions.

• Cystic Fibrosis: Affects the lungs and digestive system.
• Muscular Dystrophy: Leads to muscle weakening.

Congenital Disorders

Present at birth, affecting normal functioning.

• Spina Bifida: Affects the spine and can cause mobility issues.
• Congenital Heart Defects: Affect heart function and overall health.

Infectious Diseases

Viral and Bacterial Infections

Some infections can lead to disabilities.

• Meningitis: Inflammation of brain and spinal cord membranes.
• HIV/AIDS: Compromises the immune system, affecting body’s ability to fight infections.

Post-Infection Complications

Conditions that develop after infections:

• Polio: Can cause paralysis and muscle weaknesses.
• Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain, potentially causing long-term neurological damage.

Trauma and Injury

Accidents

Physical injuries affecting the body.

• Spinal Cord Injury: Can lead to paralysis depending on injury level.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Affects cognitive and physical abilities.

Violence

Acts of violence leading to permanent disabilities:

• Assault: May result in physical impairments.
• Domestic Violence: Can lead to both physical and mental health issues.

Age-Related Conditions

Dementia

A decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life.

• Alzheimer’s Disease: Most common form of dementia, affecting memory.

Arthritis and Osteoporosis

Both become more prevalent with age, affecting mobility and independence.

Autoimmune Disorders

Conditions Where the Immune System Targets the Body

These can result in chronic health issues:

• Lupus: Affecting the skin, joints, and organs.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: The immune system attacks the joints.

Medical and Genetic Conditions Combined

Syndromes Involving Multiple Body Systems

• Marfan Syndrome: Affects connective tissues, impacting the heart and eyes.
• Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Involves loose joints and fragile skin.

To provide effective support, understanding these conditions is key. Disabilities can be visible or hidden, temporary or permanent. Each one requires specific approaches to care and support.

Your role as a support worker involves recognising the signs, offering appropriate support, and advocating for the individuals in your care. Comprehensive knowledge of conditions causing disability enables you to deliver personalised and effective care.