Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive neurological disorder that leads to the degeneration and death of brain cells. This causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and changes in behaviour.
Disabilities
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Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in the UK and Australia, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord.
An Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) is any type of brain damage that occurs after birth. This can be the result of numerous causes- as varied as traumatic incidents like falls, assaults, and motor vehicle accidents, to non-traumatic factors such as stroke, aneurysm, infection, and oxygen deprivation. A distinguishing feature of an ABI is the significant alterations it engenders in a person's physical abilities, cognitive functions, emotions, and personality.
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a developmental disability characterized by differences in brain function. People with ASD often experience challenges in social communication and may have intense focus on specific topics, routines, or objects, and engage in repetitive movements or actions.
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Cri du Chat syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by a partial deletion on chromosome 5, distinguished by a unique, high-pitched cry resembling that of a kitten in affected infants.
Cognitive impairment refers to a decline in mental abilities such as memory, thinking, and problem-solving. It can range from mild to severe, and disrupts daily life.
Cerebral Palsy is a group of motor conditions characterised by impairment of movement and posture due to damage or abnormalities in the brain. It specifically targets coordination, muscle control, muscle tone, and balance. Symptoms may include muscle stiffness or floppiness, lack of coordination, muscle weakness, problems with swallowing or speaking, and restricted mobility. Associated conditions and challenges can include intellectual disability, seizures, delayed growth and development, and se
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Dravet Syndrome is a rare, severe form of epilepsy that begins in infancy. It is characterised by prolonged seizures that are often triggered by high temperatures or fever.
Dementia describes various conditions causing decline in memory, thinking, and daily activities, impacting individuals beyond normal age-related changes. It affects not only memory but also problem-solving, communication, and moods, and can occur even in younger people.
Down syndrome is a genetic condition that causes physical and intellectual challenges. It is caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21 and is known to lead to delayed development and an increased risk of various health problems.
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Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties, affecting the way the brain processes pain signals.
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Huntington's Disease is a genetic disorder that gradually affects how a person moves, thinks, and feels. It's caused by an inherited gene change and can be diagnosed through genetic testing.
Hearing impairment is a partial or complete inability to hear sound, ranging from mild to profound. It can affect one or both ears which can be due to various causes such as genetic factors, infections or exposure to loud noises.
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Kabuki Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterised by distinct facial features, developmental delays, and intellectual disabilities. The name comes from the facial resemblance to the make-up worn by kabuki actors in Japanese theatre.
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Motor Neurone Disease (MND) is a progressive neurological condition that damages motor neurons, leading to muscle weakness, speech difficulties, and loss of mobility.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease where the immune system attacks the protective covering (myelin) of nerves in the brain and spinal cord. This damage interferes with signals sent from the brain, causing a range of symptoms that can include muscle weakness, fatigue, and challenges with vision.
Muscular dystrophy (MD) is a group of inherited diseases causing progressive muscle weakness. Over 30 types exist, impacting different muscles and severity. While currently incurable, treatments can help manage symptoms.
Mobility impairment is a broad term for limitations in movement due to various causes, like injuries or aging. It can range from mild limitations to complete dependence on assistive devices or caregivers for daily activities.
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Psychosocial disability refers to mental health conditions that significantly impact a person’s ability to participate in daily life and social activities. This includes disorders like depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Paraplegia is paralysis of the lower body from spinal cord injury. Complete or incomplete, it causes numbness, bladder or bowel issues, and risk of infections, muscle spasms, or sores.
Parkinson's disease is a chronic brain disorder that gradually damages dopamine-producing neurons. It causes tremors, slow movement, stiffness, and balance problems. Treatments manage symptoms, but no cure exists.
Potocki-Lupski Syndrome (PTLS) is a rare genetic condition caused by the duplication of a small segment of chromosome 17. Those with PTLS are generally smiley, happy and social but will often face a few developmental, intellectual and sometimes physical challenges throughout their lives.
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Quadriplegia is a type of paralysis that affects all four limbs and the torso. It results from damage to the cervical region of the spinal cord, causing loss of sensation and movement, and can impact bodily functions like breathing.
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Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD) is a condition where the brain has difficulty receiving and responding to information from the senses, causing significant challenges in daily functioning and quality of life.
Spinal Cord Injury (SCI) is damage to the nerves within the spinal canal. This damage can severely impact movement, sensation, and other bodily functions like bladder and bowel control. Symptoms may vary depending on the location and severity of the injury.
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Tetraplegia, also known as quadriplegia, is a form of paralysis affecting all four limbs and possibly other parts of the body, such as the torso and head. This condition can result from various causes, including spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, strokes, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis.
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Vision impairment is a significant loss of sight that glasses, lenses, or medical interventions cannot fully correct. It can be present from birth, caused by injury, or develop over time. Vision impairment impacts various aspects of daily life, potentially affecting development in multiple areas.