International Day of Disabled Persons, 3 December 2012

When we think of persons with disabilities, we often don't take the time to think of what being disabled actually means. According to the Equality Act 2010, a person is considered disabled when he or she has a physical or mental impairment that has substantial and long-term negative effects on their ability to do normal daily activities. This includes people who are hearing impaired, blind, partially sighted and also individuals with learning disabilities and mental health issues.

Around 15% of the world's population or approximately one billion people, live with some or other form of disability.

As part of the Government Employees Medical Scheme's (GEMS's) on-going effort to educate our members and future members, we would like to share and explore certain important healthcare issues. This article looks at the subject of disability this International Day of Disabled Persons, 3 December.

The disabled population is known as the world's largest minority. They are faced with daily battles to overcome barriers to participate in all aspects of society. These barriers may be varied and can include those pertaining to the physical environment, information and communications technology and stretch to the attitudes of society. By removing these barriers of inclusion, disabled individuals are empowered to participate fully in societal life and this is to the advantage of their various communities. By including disabled people in all aspects of public life, we invest in the development of our communities as a whole and contribute to the development of our nation.

Disabled people can often, also empower themselves by visiting their doctors gaining knowledge about their disability. Sometimes healthcare interventions can assist to overcome a disability. Cataract surgery is an example of this. By having cataract surgery a person's sight can be restored.  Psychological support is available to those who have suffered trauma or brain injury. Some physically disabled individuals may need wheelchairs and prosthetic limbs to assist them with getting around. Other devices, which help disabled individuals, include the likes of hearing aids, walking frames, Braille, large-sized print and text phones.

International Day of Disabled Persons aims to promote a better understanding of disability issues and gain support for the dignity, rights and well being of persons with disabilities. The day also strives to increase awareness of the advantages that result from including persons with disabilities in every aspect of life.

Individuals with disabilities are urged to visit their doctor who will be able to advise on possible treatments and also provide support.

If you would like to know how GEMS can assist you to obtain more information about any of your healthcare needs, you can contact the GEMS call centre on 0860 00 4367. GEMS will assist you in every way possible to ensure your family's health and well-being.

References
1. United Nations, www.un.org
2. Disabled People South Africa, www.dpsa.org.za
3.World Health Organisation, www.who.int