What is the definition of a disability?

In the state of Washington, a disability is defined as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This definition is based on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applies to any person in Washington who has a physical or mental impairment that leaves them with a substantial limitation to one or more major life activities. Major life activities are activities such as walking, standing, reading, writing, and working. If an individual has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more of these activities, they may be considered to have a disability in the eyes of the law. In addition, the definition of disability also includes medical conditions such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, and muscular dystrophy. It also extends to conditions like mental retardation, learning disabilities, mental illness, and other types of problems that can limit an individual’s ability to perform major life activities. Under the law, an individual is also considered to be disabled if they have a history or record of a physical or mental impairment. This means that an individual may still be considered to have a disability even if they have been cured of the impairment or their symptoms have been managed. This is so that individuals with disabilities can be protected from discrimination and have access to the same services and opportunities as everyone else.

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