A disorder affecting at least one body system, such as neurological or sensory conditions, is described as what?

• A. Disability
• B. Physical or mental impairment
• C. Medical impairment
• D. Chronic condition

Answer: (B)

Think about how professionals describe problems with how the body works. An impairment is any loss or abnormality in the structure or function of a body part or system. When a disorder affects neurological or sensory systems, it fits as a physical or mental impairment because these are issues with how the body functions, not just a label about duration or a person’s activities. Disability, on the other hand, refers to limitations in performing tasks or participating in life activities that can result from an impairment, but it is not the term for the impairment itself. Chronic condition describes how long a condition lasts, not what kind of problem it is. So, the best descriptor for a disorder affecting a body system is physical or mental impairment.