Hidden Disabilities

VSA-Rated Best Resource For More Information

National Health Information Center
P.O. Box 1133
Washington, D.C. 20013-1133
(800) 336-4797 (toll free)
(301) 984-4256 (fax)
www.health.gov/nhic
Email: info@nhic.org

People with hidden disabilities have conditions such as cancer, epilepsy, diabetes, lung disease, kidney failure, hemophilia, hypertension, early stages of AIDS and heart disease. While their numbers are far greater than those of any one disability group, people with hidden disabilities often do not feel like they belong within the disability community because they are not considered to be “disabled enough” to fit into the group. People with hidden disabilities are caught between not being fully accepted as people without disabilities, and not being recognized as having “real” disabilities.

The lawmakers of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) included people with hidden disabilities under the protection of the law. The law’s broad definition of disability includes people with histories of impairment and those who are perceived as having a disability. Further, ADA regulations encourage people with hidden disabilities to disclose their disabilities and seek the full protection of the law.

Children with hidden disabilities also are included under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the law that ensures a free and appropriate public education for children with disabilities. Children in this category include those with asthma, sickle cell anemia, hemophilia, leukemia, diabetes and other conditions.

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Suggestions To Improve Access and Positive Interactions

Provide an environment conducive to self-disclosure.
Once a person has identified himself or herself as having a disability, an open and honest, confidential discussion can follow regarding the need for, and nature of, accommodations required.
Ask questions that will help you provide appropriate accommodations.

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