Someone who is disabled, handicapped, challenged or have special needs is sometimes referred to as a differently abled person.

The term “differently abled” can apply to people with predominantly physical or mental challenges and merely means that these individuals do things differently from what is expected from the general “abled” population, without an implied criticism.

Technological advances have removed many obstacles for differently abled people in their aspirations to pursue the careers of their choice.

Added strengths

Far from being incapable, differently abled people may have special strengths that exceed those of the general population. Autistics with splinter skills (exceptional ability to read, do mathematical calculations, etc.), bipolar disordered individuals with exceptional creativity, and people with Down syndrome who have engaging personalities and elevated mood are examples.

Ability activist, 21-year-old Chaeli Mycroft, the co-founder of the non-profit Chaeli Campaign, was the first quadriplegic to conquer Mount Kilamanjaro in August this year. Stephen Hawking is one of the greatest scientists the world has ever known, yet he is quadriplegic and can only speak with the aid of a computer. Hawkins freely admits that he has reached the top in his field because of and not in spite of his disability.

Difference between total disability and temporary disability

Temporary or partial disability is defined as any type of disability in which the worker is unable to perform at full physical capacity. This is usually due to an on the job injury or due to illness.

A total disability is one where the employee is prevented from performing any work at all because of the injury or condition. This is generally defined as the loss of the use of legs, arms, hands, or eyes, or any two such parts such as a leg and arm. Total disability can also involve impairment due to a serious occupational disease.

South African definitions

Although some disabled people prefer the term “differently abled”, this term is not generally used in South Africa. The disability rights movement of South Africa accepts the terms “disabled person” and “people with disabilities”.

 

Sources
Disabled People South Africa (DPSA). May 2014. A pocket guide on disability equity
www.legalmatch.com
www.paralegaladvice.org.za/
www.westerncape.gov.za/
www.wisegeek.com