Physical and Health Disabilities
Resources for Parents and Teachers
Overview of Physical Disabilities
Definition
- Severe impairment of the function or structure of the body that significantly impacts educational performance.
- Also known as Orthopedic Impairments under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
Prevalence
- No national or state registries that are kept for physical disabilities
- Some individuals have multiple conditions and are counted under the Multiple Disabilities category under IDEA
- Many students with physical disabilities do not require special education services
Major Characteristics
- Paralysis
- Low/altered muscle tone
- Unsteady gait
- Loss/inability to use one or more limbs
- Difficulty with gross-motor skills
- Difficulty with fine-motor skills
Characteristics that Interfere with Learning
- Communication difficulties
- Difficulty maneuvering around the classroom/hallway
- Motor difficulties (especially with writing)
- Difficulty concentrating
- Social skills
Physical Disability Website Resources
Orthopedic Impairments
This resource provides information for parents of children with physical disabilities, as well as resources they can explore for further information. Resources for teachers of students with physical disabilities are also included, along with accommodation strategies to implement in the classroom.
National Center on Health, Physical Activity, and Disability
The goal of the NCHPAD is to work towards creating an inclusive environment for individuals with health and physical disabilities. It contains tips for creating an inclusive environment, as well as techniques for individuals with physical and health disabilities to remain healthy and active.
TransferLiftCarry iPhone/iPad App
Overview of Health Disabilities
Definition
- Severe health problems that require special medical and educational services
- Known as Other Health Impairments under IDEA
Prevalence
- No national or state registries that are kept for physical disabilities
- Some individuals have multiple conditions and are counted under the Multiple Severe Disabilities category under IDEA
- Many students with physical disabilities do not require special education services
449,093 students between the ages of 6 and 21 have been identified as having a health disability.
Major Characteristics
- Fatigue
- Mobility problems
- Inattention
- Coordination difficulties
- Muscle weakness
- Reduced stamina
Characteristics that Interfere with Learning
- Academic lag due to missed school as a result of doctor appointments/illness
- Difficulties paying attention, especially for long periods of time
- Missed class due to frequent visits to the nurse or other health professional
- Fatigue and lack of motivation to complete assignments (may be due to medication side effects)
- Social skills
Health Disability Website Resources
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
This resource provides a comprehensive list of health disabilities and related information, as well as other relevant resources. Parents, educators, and students can use this resource to understand common health disabilities, including the symptoms and how to manage them.
Family Voices
Family Voices provides support for parents of children with health impairments. It includes articles on caring for a child with a health disability, ensuring your child has the necessary supports in all aspects of their lives, and managing the cost and burden of medical treatments.
RxmindMe iPhone/iPad App
Instructional Practices
Alternative Instructional Technology
For additional information: http://web.worldbank.org/archive/website00236B/WEB/DIS_02.HTM
Schedule Flexibility
For more information: http://www.washington.edu/doit/writing-assignments
Note-Taker/Proctor
For more information: http://www.washington.edu/doit/what-are-some-ways-provide-note-taking-accommodations-student-disability
Home Strategies
Clear Walkways and Secure Loose Objects
For more information: http://home.howstuffworks.com/home-improvement/remodeling/how-to-make-your-home-handicap-accessible2.htm
Elevators/Ramps
For more information on the different types of stair lifts and ramps available visit: http://www.mediequip.net/2011/stairlifts.html
Medication Schedule
For more information: https://www.medactionplan.com/Blog/post/How-to-Come-Up-with-a-Medication-Schedule-that-Works-for-You.aspx
Resources
Bennett, K. S., & Hay, D. A. (2007). The Role of Family in the Development of Social Skills in Children with Physical Disabilities. International Journal Of Disability, Development And Education, 54(4), 381-397.
Comprehensive overview of other health impairments. (2007). Retrieved from National Association of Special Education Teachers: https://www.naset.org/2278.0.html
Heller, K. W., & Swinehart-Jones, D. (2003). Supporting the Educational Needs of Students with Orthopedic Impairments. Physical Disabilities: Education And Related Services, 22(1), 3-24.
Kendall, R. M. (1991). Unique Educational Needs of Learners with Physical and Other Health Impairments.
Milota, C., PACER Center, I. M., & And, O. (1991). Count Me In: Resource Manual on Disabilities.
Physical disability. (2015, April 10). Retrieved from Department of Education and Early Childhood Development: http://www.ed.gov.nl.ca/edu/k12/studentsupportservices/physical.html
Other health impairments. (2014, May). Retrieved from Center for Parent Information and Resources: http://www.parentcenterhub.org/repository/ohi/
Smith, D. D., & Tyler, N. C. (2014). Introduction to contemporary special education new horizons. Pearson Education.
Venn, J., & ERIC Clearinghouse on Handicapped and Gifted Children, R. V. (1989). Students with Physical Disabilities and Health Impairments. Revised. ERIC Digest #459.