Disability, Caregiving & Wellness Glossary (A–Z)
This glossary provides clear, accessible definitions of key terms, laws, and individuals that shape the history and philosophy of Independent Living and disability rights. It is designed to support understanding, promote shared language, and honor the lived experiences that continue to guide advocacy, policy, and community inclusion.
A
Ableism
Discrimination or social attitudes that devalue or exclude people with disabilities. Ableism can appear in language, policies, environments, or assumptions about what people can or cannot do.
Accessibility
The practice of designing environments, tools, and systems so people of all abilities can use them safely, independently, and with dignity.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 is a landmark U.S. civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities and guarantees equal access to public life.
The ADA ensures that individuals with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else in areas such as employment, public services, transportation, education, telecommunications, and access to public and private spaces open to the public.
Rather than viewing disability as a personal limitation, the ADA recognizes that barriers created by society—physical, attitudinal, and systemic—are what restrict full participation. The law requires reasonable accommodations and accessible design so people with disabilities can live, work, and participate in their communities with dignity and independence.
Signed into law on July 26, 1990, the ADA represents a critical step in affirming disability as a civil rights issue, not a matter of charity or medical condition alone.
Assistive Technology
Devices, tools, or software designed to help people with disabilities perform tasks, increase independence, or improve quality of life. Examples include mobility aids, communication devices, adaptive utensils, and smart home tools.
C
Caregiver
A person who provides physical, emotional, or practical support to someone who needs assistance due to disability, illness, aging, or cognitive changes. Caregivers may be family members, friends, or professionals.
Caregiver Burnout
A state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged caregiving stress. It may include fatigue, irritability, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed.
Cognitive Decline
A gradual change in memory, thinking, or problem-solving abilities. It can range from mild impairment to more advanced conditions such as dementia.
D
Dementia
A general term used to describe conditions that affect memory, thinking, communication, and daily functioning. Dementia is a medical condition and not a normal part of aging.
Dignity
Respect for a person’s worth, autonomy, and identity. In caregiving and disability contexts, dignity means honoring choices, preferences, and individuality.
E
Ed Roberts
Definition:
Ed Roberts (1939–1995) was a disability rights activist widely recognized as the father of the Independent Living Movement.
Why he matters:
After becoming paralyzed from polio, Ed Roberts challenged institutional norms by advocating for the right of people with disabilities to live independently, attend university, and participate fully in community life. He helped establish the first Center for Independent Living (CIL) in Berkeley, California, and played a critical role in advancing disability-led advocacy, self-determination, and peer support as core principles of Independent Living.
Key concept:
Nothing about us without us.
I
Independent Living
A philosophy that emphasizes choice, autonomy, and self-direction. Independent living does not mean doing everything alone; it means having control over how support is used.
M
Mindfulness
The practice of being present and aware in the moment without judgment. Mindfulness can help caregivers and individuals reduce stress and regulate emotions.
N
Neurodegenerative Disease
A condition in which nerve cells gradually lose function over time, such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease.
O
Occupational Therapy
A form of therapy that helps people perform daily activities safely and independently through adaptive strategies, tools, or skill development.
R
Respite Care
Temporary care provided to give caregivers a break. Respite care may be offered at home, in community programs, or in care facilities.
S
Self-Care
Intentional actions taken to protect physical, emotional, and mental well-being. For caregivers, self-care is essential to sustainable caregiving.
Spirituality
A personal sense of meaning, connection, or purpose. Spirituality may involve faith, reflection, prayer, gratitude, or personal values.
Support Tools
Products, technologies, or services designed to reduce physical or mental effort and support safety, independence, or quality of life.
T
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973
Definition:
A landmark United States civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability in programs and activities receiving federal funding.
Why it matters:
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 laid the legal foundation for disability rights in the U.S. Most notably, Section 504 established that people with disabilities have the right to equal access, accommodations, and participation in education, employment, transportation, and public services. This law directly influenced the development of the Independent Living Movement and later legislation, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Key concept:
Disability rights are civil rights—not charity.
W
Well-Being
A state of balance that includes physical health, emotional stability, mental clarity, and a sense of purpose.
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