A mobility disability is a physical impairment that affects movement. If it is long term, a mobility disability could qualify for disability benefits.
A mobility disability is a physical disability or impairment that affects movement. It can either be inherited, caused by illness or injury, or part of aging.
Mobility disabilities can affect gross motor skills, such as walking, and fine motor skills, such as grasping things.
Mobility disabilities are common. In the United States, 12% of adults have a mobility disability with serious difficulty walking or climbing stairs.
Mobility disabilities could affect your ability to perform everyday tasks or maintain a job. If your mobility disability is severe, you could qualify for mobility disability benefits.
What is considered a mobility disability?
A mobility disability is any type of injury or illness that affects your ability to move. This can include major movements such as walking or smaller movements such as the ability to use your hands and grasp objects.
The specific definition of mobility disability varies, but the CDC defines it as “any condition of the body that makes it more difficult for the person with the condition to do certain activities and interact with the world around them.”
A mobility disability can be temporary or permanent. However, if you’re seeking disability pay for a mobility disability, you will need to prove that your disability will be long term or permanent.
Examples of mobility disability conditions
Mobility disabilities can be caused by injury or illness and can include situations or disorders such as:
Physical disability vs. mobility disability
A physical disability is considered a long-term impairment of the physical ability to perform a task. It can affect a person’s movement, stamina, dexterity, and other physical abilities.
A mobility disability is a type of physical disability that specifically affects movement. It can be either temporary or permanent and includes walking as well as fine motor skills such as grasping objects.
What accommodations can be provided for mobility disabilities?
Mobility disabilities affect different people in different ways. This means that not everyone will benefit from the same type of accommodations or assistance.
Examples of accommodations or devices that could help someone with a mobility disability are:
- grab bars
- accessible parking
- wheelchair ramps
- accessible hallways or entryways
- crutches or walkers
- wheelchairs
- joysticks, trackballs, or head pointers for computer use
Also, your job is expected to make reasonable accommodations for a mobility disability, such as:
- modifying job duties
- offering flexible work schedules
- providing accessible technology
- offering other workplace adaptive equipment
How do you apply for mobility disability?
Mobility disability benefits may be available if you’re no longer able to work and your disability is considered long term. The Social Security Administration (SSA) doesn’t consider short-term mobility disabilities eligible for disability pay.
The SSA has a full list of eligibility requirements and qualifying medical conditions on its website.
When you’re ready to apply for mobility disability benefits, you can begin the application process online with the SSA . The SSA is also available by phone or in person for new applicants.
You will be prompted to collect your supporting documentation, proof of your work history, and your identity.
If your claim isn’t approved the first time, many people re-apply and win their appeal.
The takeaway
A mobility disability is a type of physical disability that affects your movement. It can be caused by either illness or injury and can be temporary or permanent.
Your disability may qualify for mobility disability benefits if it meets the criteria of the SSA. Reasonable accommodations by employers and businesses are required to permit access for people with a mobility disability.
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