International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Why is This Day so Important?
Key Takeaways
- Disability is a condition in which either your body or your mind is impaired
- The theme of this year’s IDPD is to fight for rights of differently-abled people
- People with disabilities need to be provided with equal opportunities in society
A condition in which either your body or mind is impaired is known as disability. This makes a person unable to perform certain activities or interact properly with people. Disabilities affect an individual’s:
- Learning skills
- Hearing capabilities
- Thinking
- Movement
- Communication
- Mental ability
International Day of Persons with Disabilities is celebrated on December 3 every year. This day is observed as a tribute to the struggles of all the differently abled people. Celebrating this day addresses different challenges and barriers such people face. It also provides them with new opportunities to live a fulfilled life. The global community strives to ensure that people with disabilities are accepted and included in our society.
According to WHO, approximately 1 billion people experience disability at present, and this number continues to increase steeply [1]. By celebrating this day, the rights and well-being of people with disabilities are given importance. To understand more about International Day of Persons with Disabilities and how it is celebrated, read on.
Additional read: A Guide on World Polio Day: What are its Symptoms and Treatment?
What is Disability?
Differently abled people refer to a group having a diverse range of needs. It is not necessary for two people with similar disabilities to be affected in the same manner. While disabilities may remain hidden in a few people, it may become obvious in many other individuals. The WHO has categorized disability into the following three dimensions [2].
- Activity limitation
- Impairment
- Restrictions in participating in various daily activities
The activity limitation refers to people who find it difficult to hear, walk, see or solve routine problems. Impairment refers to a change in a person’s body structure and mental functioning. Here are a few examples of such disabilities.
- Vision loss
- Loss of limbs
- Memory loss
Some disabilities occur at birth and others may happen in a later part of life. Defects in the gene or chromosome structure can also result in disability. Few examples of this type include
- Muscular dystrophy
- Down syndrome
Additional read: 7 Severe Neurological Conditions and Symptoms to Look Out for
How Did This Day Originate?
This day was first observed in the year 1992 to create awareness about the rights of differently abled people. It helps others understand the difficulties faced by such people. It also encourages people to include differently abled people in all aspects of cultural, political, economic and social life. In the year 2006, a convention was adopted for the rights of persons with disabilities. It was formed to recognize their well-being and rights.
This convention also aimed to increase the participation of people with disabilities in the society. It also reminds us to end discrimination towards them and provide them with equal opportunities. If our society is not inclusive, it affects the morale and lifestyle of such people. Observing International Day of Persons with Disabilities aims to make the world more accessible for differently abled people.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Theme
The theme for IDPD 2021 is Fighting for rights post-COVID. This year the challengers and barriers for people living with disabilities have increased due to the global pandemic. As a result of this, not many opportunities are available for them. This theme has serves to create awareness to put an end to the exploitation and discrimination of people with disabilities.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities: Activities
Many activities are conducted to support people with disabilities. One such activity is called the Accessible India Campaign [3]. This is a flagship campaign conducted throughout the country in order to help differently abled people live independently and without discrimination. It also encourages them to participate in different activities of the society.
If you or your loved ones have one or more disabilities, remember that you and they have many more special abilities. For addressing any health-related issues, connect with specialists on Bajaj Finserv Health via a convenient online doctor consultation. To address rising medical expenses, you can invest in Aarogya Care health insurance plans from Bajaj Finserv Health. With these budget-friendly plans, you can enjoy umpteen benefits and lead your life without restrictions.
- https://www.who.int/news-room/events/detail/2021/12/03/default-calendar/international-day-of-persons-with-disabilities-2021
- https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/disability.html
- https://www.nhp.gov.in/international-day-of-persons-with-disabilities_pg
Please note that this article is solely meant for informational purposes and Bajaj Finserv Health Limited (“BFHL”) does not shoulder any responsibility of the views/advice/information expressed/given by the writer/reviewer/originator. This article should not be considered as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with your trusted physician/qualified healthcare professional to evaluate your medical condition. The above article has been reviewed by a qualified doctor and BFHL is not responsible for any damages for any information or services provided by any third party.
