What is Disability? This introductory resource explains how disability is defined and the “models of disability,” or frameworks, that are used to understand the disability experience. It also offers insight into disability statistics. Understanding Disability Definition According to the legal definition set forth by the Americans with Disabilities Act, a person with a disability is someone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity ... Disability is the experience of any condition that makes it more difficult for a person to do certain activities or have equitable access within a given society. Learn about the different theoretical models, terms, activism, and history of disability, as well as the disability culture and community. Disability is part of being human. An estimated 1.3 billion people – about 16% of the global population – currently experience significant disability. This number is increasing due in part to population ageing and an increase in the prevalence of noncommunicable diseases. Unit 1: Understanding Disability 1.1 Historical perspectives of Disability - National and International & Models of Disability; 1.2 Concept, Meaning and Definition - Handicap, Impairment, Disability, activity limitation, habilitation and Rehabilitation; 1.3 Definition, categories (Benchmark Disabilities) & the legal provisions for PWDs in India; 1.4 An overview of Causes, Prevention, prevalence & demographic profile of disability: National and Global; 1.5 Concept, meaning and importance of ...