Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, when is a person considered "disabled"?

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a person is considered "disabled" when they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, restricts their ability to perform a broad class of jobs, or has a record of such an impairment. This definition emphasizes that the emphasis is not solely on their ability to perform a specific job but considers the wider implications of their impairment on their capacity to engage in various work activities across multiple job types.

This broader perspective is crucial as it ensures that individuals who may still have the potential to work in some capacity are protected, promoting inclusivity and accessibility in the workplace. This interpretation aligns with the purpose of the ADA, which aims to prevent discrimination based on disability and to provide equal opportunities for individuals to contribute effectively to the workforce.