What is the definition of "disability" under the ADA?

The definition of "disability" under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is specifically articulated as a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This definition is crucial as it focuses on the impact of the impairment on a person's ability to perform significant daily tasks, such as walking, talking, learning, and working, rather than the existence of the impairment itself.

This focus on substantial limitation aligns with the goal of the ADA to ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided with equal opportunities and do not face discrimination based on their conditions. By centering the definition on how an impairment affects major life activities, the ADA aims to cover a broad range of disabilities, ensuring that protections are in place for those who might have conditions that are not immediately visible or are less recognized.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the legal definition of disability under the ADA. For instance, the notion of a condition that restricts an individual from performing any work would exclude many individuals who can still participate in various forms of employment. Similarly, characterizing a disability merely as a temporary setback or a chronic illness that does not affect daily functioning fails to capture the essence of what constitutes a disability according to the law. The ADA provides a more inclusive understanding that recognizes