What does a functional limitation restrict?

A functional limitation refers to the restrictions that a person experiences in performing major life activities as a result of a disability. This term is commonly used in contexts such as healthcare law and disability rights, where the focus is on how a disability affects an individual's ability to engage in fundamental activities like walking, seeing, learning, and communicating.

The choice reflecting a major life activity due to a disability is the most accurate interpretation of functional limitations. Such limitations can significantly impact a person's day-to-day life and often play a central role in determining eligibility for certain benefits or accommodations under laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Understanding this concept is crucial in healthcare and legal contexts, as it shapes how services and accommodations are provided to those with disabilities, allowing for inclusivity and support tailored to individual needs.