Disability is a spectrum

There was consensus that recognising that disability is a spectrum became increasingly significant for wellbeing. Disabilities vary widely and can be visible, less-visible and non-visible and encompass a wide range of physical, sensory, cognitive, and mental health conditions, each with its own set of challenges and needs. From my research I learnt that acknowledging this spectrum is essential for developing inclusive and adaptive policies, services and care that truly supports the wellbeing of disabled individuals. Failure to understand that disability is not a single, homogeneous condition but a spectrum encompassing a wide range of impairments and experiences can be a contributing factor in the wellbeing needs of disabled people not being met.

I went on to learn from others that multiple disabilities’ experiences often fall outside the mainstream narrative of disability and therefore people often struggle to find appropriate support and accommodations, exacerbating barriers to accessibility, communication, and inclusion, affecting their wellbeing.

“Very often we are put in the ‘too hard’ category because people assume we can’t. But the problem is, they’re often not asking.”

My discussions deeply underscored the necessity of listening; a fundamental step toward understanding and action. How would we even know how to begin with offering the right support, how would we know how to support someone’s wellbeing if we don’t listen to people to better understand their needs? 

A doctor in Australia shared how challenging it can be; “I don’t fit the picture that is often assumed when it comes to disability and I’m constantly having to convince others that I’m ill. Phrases such as ‘you don’t look that ill’ are often used to weaponise, to doubt or question the seriousness of my condition. I’m trying to realise that it’s not my responsibility to convince others that I am in pain.”

It is a worldwide initiative but I’ve never seen more prominence than in Australia, as part of their broader accessibility efforts and has generally received positive feedback. However, when I spoke to a group of people with non-visible disabilities in Australia, they spoke about it being primarily a “symbolic gesture.”

"Is  enough happening with regards to tangible support for people with hidden disabilities in Australia?" I asked. The group all shook their heads. Without accompanying changes in policies and practices and appropriate support, they felt the lanyard meant nothing. 

In addition to non-visible disabilities and multiple disabilities, it’s also important to consider the challenges for people who acquire disability later in life. 

In her written piece ‘The Air that I Breathe’ Dr Annmaree who I met at Sydney University described that her “life was like a building site after an explosion: rubble, thick stifling dust” as she came to terms with her dual sensory impairment.