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What Is Mobility Impairment?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

A mobility impairment is a disability that interferes with a person's ability to perform tasks that require motor control and coordination. Such disabilities can involve the upper body, lower body, or both, and range from paralysis to amputation. Some people with mobility impairments choose to use adaptive devices to help them navigate their environment, while others do not find such devices necessary. As with other disabled persons, accommodations may be required by law in public spaces, the workplace, and at school to allow people to go about their business.

Some mobility impairments require the use of wheelchairs, walkers, canes, or crutches. Some people may be unstable on their feet, or unable to stand unsupported. These mobility aids can allow them to navigate more safely, but can also require some accommodation. Wheelchair users, for example, need wide doorways, ramps, and other modifications to ensure they have access with their chairs.

Crutches, or other walk-aids, may be required if an individual's mobility has been impaired.
Crutches, or other walk-aids, may be required if an individual's mobility has been impaired.

Mobility doesn't just involve the legs. Such impairments can limit the functionality of the arms and hands as well. People may find it difficult to write, perform fine motor tasks, or coordinate their arms for activities like driving. For these mobility impairments, foot controls, dictation software, and similar tools can be useful. A house might, for example, be equipped with foot pedals to control lights for a person who has a mobility impairment in the hands.

People suffering from mobility impairment may require canes to aid in walking.
People suffering from mobility impairment may require canes to aid in walking.

Impairments may be congenital or acquired, and can vary in intensity and severity. Cerebral palsy, for example, is an example of a congenital disability, while a patient may require amputation after a severe injury later in life in an acquired mobility impairment. People with chronic pain conditions and neurological problems may experience varying degrees of mobility impairment at different times. Additionally, a mobility impairment may be temporary, as when someone breaks a leg, but plans to return to full mobility once the leg heals.

Stair lifts make it possible for people with mobility impairment to access upper floors.
Stair lifts make it possible for people with mobility impairment to access upper floors.

Public accommodations for people with mobility impairments can include ramps for wheelchairs and walkers, railings to help people stabilize themselves, and easy-grip knobs, switches, and other controls. These measures can also benefit older adults who may not have specific impairments but could appreciate these details to make the world easier to navigate. Some people with such impairments choose to partner with a service animal who can provide stability or assistance with tasks like grasping and manipulating objects. Public accommodations also extend to trained service animals, as long as they are well behaved and demonstrably perform tasks for their handlers.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

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    • Crutches, or other walk-aids, may be required if an individual's mobility has been impaired.
      By: Stephen Coburn
      Crutches, or other walk-aids, may be required if an individual's mobility has been impaired.
    • People suffering from mobility impairment may require canes to aid in walking.
      By: Barabas Attila
      People suffering from mobility impairment may require canes to aid in walking.
    • Stair lifts make it possible for people with mobility impairment to access upper floors.
      By: babi00
      Stair lifts make it possible for people with mobility impairment to access upper floors.
    • Spinal injuries and neurological conditions can lead to mobility impairment.
      By: marilyn barbone
      Spinal injuries and neurological conditions can lead to mobility impairment.
    • People with a mobility impairment might need to use a wheelchair.
      By: joyb0218
      People with a mobility impairment might need to use a wheelchair.
    • Schools and other public buildings must make accomodations for those who are mobility impaired.
      By: BildPix.de
      Schools and other public buildings must make accomodations for those who are mobility impaired.
    • An individual who undergoes an amputation as a result of a severe injury may suffer from mobility impairment.
      By: kolotype
      An individual who undergoes an amputation as a result of a severe injury may suffer from mobility impairment.