Glossary
 

Augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) device: An electronic device that talks for a person who cannot speak.  The device usually has a recorded or electronic voice and can say words or sentences the user chooses. 

Assistive devices and technology:  Any piece of equipment, or product that a person with a disability can use to increase, maintain, or improve his or her ability to do things.  

Communication limitations:  Problems a person has with everyday communication activities such as talking on the phone or ordering food at a fast food resturant.

Disability:  A general term used for the problems a person with a health condition (such as cerebral palsy or deafness) has because of barriers in his or her environment.

Learning limitations:  Problems a person has with everyday learning activities such as school work, learning to play a sport, or learning a new job.

Mobility limitations: Problems a person has with everyday mobility activities such as walking or getting around or sitting. 

Paralympics: an international sports competition involving world-class disabled athletes, similar in scope to the Olympic Games. The Paralympic Games are held about 2 weeks after the Olympic Games in the same host city/country. 

People with disabilities: People who have an activity limitation, use assistance, or believe they have a disability.

Personal-care limitations: Problems a person has with everyday personal-care activities such as dressing, going to the bathroom or eating. 

Secondary conditions: Medical, social, emotional, family, or community problems that a person with a primary disabling condition (such as mental retardation or blindness) probably experiences.

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Date: September 28, 2006
Content source: National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities