A glossary of terms relevant to disability, accessibility and technology

The paralysis of the legs and lower part of the body and is usually caused by injury or disease in the lower spinal cord, or by brain disorders such as cerebral palsy.

A progressive disorder caused by the brain’s inability to manufacture a chemical that signals the muscles to move. Symptoms include involuntary tremors, stiff movements, and/or lack of balance.

Acknowledging the personhood of individuals with disabilities before their disability (e.g., “people with disabilities”, “person who uses a wheelchair”, “person with cerebral palsy”, “person has a physical disability”, etc.).

A condition caused by damage to the nerves in the peripheral nervous system which includes nerves that run from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body.

A term that describes how individuals with disabilities prefer to refer to themselves. It’s best practice to put people first, not their disability. Unless a person specifically prefers identity-first language, always use person-first language, such as “a person who is blind.”

A form of accessibility that focuses on making physical spaces, such as elevators, reserved parking spots, and restroom stalls, accessible to people who use wheelchairs or who have other physical impairments.

A wide range of conditions, both visible and invisible, that affect a person’s movement. Also referred to as a mobility challenge.

Any physiological disorder or condition, cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss affecting one or more of the following body systems: neurological; musculoskeletal; special sense organs; respiratory, including speech organs; cardiovascular; reproductive; digestive; genito-urinary; hemic and lymphatic; skin; and endocrine; or any mental or psychological disorder, such as intellectual disability, organic brain syndrome, emotional or mental illness, and specific learning disabilities.

Separate program written to be launched by a specific web browser to display or run special elements in web pages, such as animation, video, or audio.

A condition that affects a person who has had poliomyelitis (polio) after recovery, and is characterized by muscle weakness, joint and muscle pain and fatigue.