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Definition

Disability is defined as: 

  • total or partial loss of bodily or mental functions. 

  • total or partial loss of a part of the body. 

  • the presence in the body of organisms causing disease or illness. 

  • the presence in the body of organisms capable of causing disease or illness. 

  • the malfunction, malformation or disfigurement of a part of the body. 

  • a disorder or malfunction that results in the person learning differently from a person without the disorder or malfunction. 

  • a disorder, illness or disease that affects a person’s thought processes, perception of reality, emotions or judgement or that results in disturbed behaviour. 

The definition includes a disability that: 

  • exists now; or previously existed but no longer exists. 

  • may exist in the future (some disabilities develop at a later date due to genetic or other factors). 

  • is imputed (attributed) to a person. 

Behaviour that is a symptom or manifestation of the disability is specifically included in the definition of disability. 

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