Tipos de Discapacidades OMS: A Comprehensive Overview
Understanding the various types of disabilities as categorized by the World Health Organization (WHO) is crucial for creating inclusive societies and providing appropriate support to individuals with disabilities. The WHO’s classification of disabilities is a comprehensive framework that helps in recognizing and addressing the diverse needs of people with disabilities. Let’s delve into the different types of disabilities as defined by the WHO.
1. Intellectual Disability
Intellectual disability refers to significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, which emerge before the age of 18. It is characterized by challenges in learning, communication, and social skills. The WHO categorizes intellectual disability into four levels: mild, moderate, severe, and profound.
2. Hearing Disability
Hearing disability encompasses a range of hearing impairments, from mild to profound. It can be categorized into two types: conductive hearing loss, which occurs due to issues in the outer or middle ear, and sensorineural hearing loss, which affects the inner ear and auditory nerve. Hearing disabilities can be present from birth or acquired later in life.
3. Visual Disability
Visual disability refers to difficulties in seeing, ranging from partial sight to complete blindness. It can be categorized into three types: low vision, which is characterized by limited vision that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses, and two types of blindness: legal blindness and complete blindness. Legal blindness is defined as having a visual acuity of less than 20/200 in the better eye with correction, or a field of vision of less than 20 degrees.
4. Physical Disability
Physical disability refers to impairments, activity limitations, and participation restrictions related to movement, stability, and dexterity. It can be caused by a wide range of conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders, neurological disorders, and congenital conditions. Physical disabilities can affect mobility, posture, and balance.
5. Speech and Language Disability
Speech and language disability refers to difficulties in communication, including speech production, comprehension, and language skills. It can be caused by various factors, such as developmental disorders, acquired brain injuries, or hearing impairments. This type of disability can impact social interactions, education, and employment opportunities.
6. Mental Health Disability
Mental health disability refers to a wide range of conditions that affect a person’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It includes disorders such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder. Mental health disabilities can have a significant impact on an individual’s daily functioning and quality of life.
7. Sensory Disability
Sensory disability refers to impairments in one or more of the five senses: sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. It can be categorized into two types: sensory loss, which is a complete or partial loss of one or more senses, and sensory distortion, which is a disruption in the perception of sensory information.
8. Cognitive Disability
Cognitive disability refers to impairments in cognitive processes, such as memory, attention, and problem-solving. It can be caused by various factors, including brain injuries, neurological disorders, and developmental conditions. Cognitive disabilities can affect an individual’s ability to learn, communicate, and perform daily tasks.
9. Developmental Disability
Developmental disability refers to a group of chronic conditions that affect physical, learning, language, and behavior development. These conditions are often present from early childhood and can affect individuals throughout their lives. Examples of developmental disabilities include autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy.
10. Acquired Disability
Acquired disability refers to disabilities that are acquired later in life, often due to accidents, illnesses, or medical conditions. This category includes conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injury, and multiple sclerosis. Acquired disabilities can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and maintain their independence.
Understanding the various types of disabilities as categorized by the WHO is essential for creating inclusive societies and providing appropriate support to individuals with disabilities. By recognizing the diverse needs of people with disabilities, we can work towards creating a more equitable and accessible world for all.
