Disabilities can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life, from their ability to work to their need for ongoing medical care and daily support. Some disabilities are present at birth, while others develop because of illness, aging, or serious accidents.
Depending on the cause and severity of a disability, financial assistance may be available through programs such as Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), workers’ compensation, or a personal injury claim. Understanding the most common types of disabilities can help individuals and families better navigate the challenges they may face.
Defining Disability in Oklahoma
The definition of a disability depends on the purpose. A condition that qualifies for one type of benefit may not qualify for another.
For example:
- The U.S. Census Bureau: Uses a broad definition that includes physical or cognitive conditions affecting activities such as seeing, hearing, walking, self-care, or independent living.
- The Social Security Administration (SSA): Generally requires a medical condition that prevents you from engaging in substantial work for at least one year.
- Oklahoma workers’ compensation: Focuses on whether a work-related injury or occupational illness temporarily or permanently prevents you from working, rather than on a specific diagnosis.
Understanding these different definitions can help you determine which benefits or legal options may be available based on your circumstances.
Ten Common Disabilities Under U.S. and Oklahoma Law
Using these definitions, certain conditions may result in a finding of legal disability.
1. Cognitive Disabilities
Cognitive disabilities limit the following brain functions:
- Learning
- Remembering
- Solving problems
- Processing information
Cognitive disabilities may be congenital or acquired through traumatic brain injuries.
2. Musculoskeletal Injuries
Musculoskeletal injuries include broken bones, strained muscles, and sprained ligaments. These injuries often result from accidents, repetitive stress, or overuse. For example, car accidents are a major cause of these disabilities.
3. Musculoskeletal Diseases
Musculoskeletal disease is the top diagnosis for Social Security claims. These diseases are congenital or result from wear. Degenerative disc disease, osteoporosis, and arthritis are common diagnoses for this type of disability.
4. Mental Illnesses
Mental illnesses can affect perceptions, behaviors, and moods. However, these diseases are different from cognitive disabilities because they do not affect the person’s intelligence. Examples of these illnesses include depression and schizophrenia.
5. Nerve Damage
Nerve damage can affect the body’s ability to gather sensory information. It can also impair both the brain’s automatic and voluntary responses. The most severe form of nerve damage is a spinal cord injury that produces permanent paralysis. Milder forms of nerve damage can cause weakness and numbness.
6. Heart Disease
Heart disease is a leading cause of death in Oklahoma. Heart issues can interfere with a person’s mobility, self-care, and independent living.
7. Cancer
Cancer is another leading cause of death in the state. The disease and its treatments can cause pain, organ failure, and, in many cases, death.
8. Lung Disease
Lung disorders, such as emphysema and other forms of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, were a leading cause of death in the U.S. Although smoking rates have declined and air quality has improved in some areas, lung disease continues to affect many people.
9. Endocrine Disorders
Endocrine diseases can be acquired or congenital. They affect the body’s metabolism. A common endocrine disease is diabetes.
10. Autoimmune Disorders
Autoimmune disorders cause the body’s immune system to attack healthy tissues. These diseases include multiple sclerosis and lupus.
Contact the Oklahoma City Personal Injury Lawyers at McIntyre Law for Help Today
A disability can affect your health, finances, and quality of life for years to come. If your condition was caused by someone else’s negligence or a work-related injury, you may have legal options for pursuing compensation in addition to any available disability benefits.
The Oklahoma City personal injury lawyers at McIntyre Law help individuals and families understand their rights after serious injuries. If you have questions about your situation or want to learn more about your legal options, contact our office today to schedule a free consultation.
Reach out to McIntyre Law for help today. We proudly serve injured clients throughout Oklahoma City, Oklahoma County, and surrounding communities across Oklahoma.
McIntyre Law P.C. – Oklahoma City
8601 S Western Ave,
Oklahoma City, OK 73139
Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM–5:30 PM
(405) 917-5200