Glossary

Term traditionally used to indicate the social disadvantage and limitations that a person experiences due to an impairment, in relation to the environmental and social context. The World Health Organization (WHO) has progressively abandoned this term in favor of "disability" and "participation," recognizing that limitations derive from the interaction between health conditions and contextual barriers, not from the person themselves.

The ICF (2001) replaced the deficit-centric model with a bio-psycho-social approach. In Italy, Law 104/1992 still uses the term "handicap" in the legal formulation to define rights and protections. Contemporary language prefers "person with disability" instead of "handicapped," emphasizing the person before the condition (people-first language). This terminological evolution reflects a cultural change: from a medical-care vision to a social model of rights, autonomy and inclusion.

Learn more on Wikipedia

Partial or total reduction of hearing ability that can affect one ear (unilateral) or both (bilateral). Classification by severity: mild (20-40 dB), moderate (40-70 dB), severe (70-90 dB), profound (>90 dB). By location: conductive (outer/middle ear, often correctable), sensorineural (inner ear/auditory nerve, permanent), mixed.

Causes: congenital (genetic, prenatal infections), acquired (otitis, acoustic trauma, ototoxic drugs, presbycusis, diseases). Significant impact on: language development in children, communication, learning, social relationships, safety, mental health (isolation, depression). Diagnosis: tonal and vocal audiometry, impedance testing, auditory evoked potentials, neonatal screening. Treatment: hearing aids, cochlear implants (profound hearing loss), speech therapy rehabilitation, psychological support. Alternative communication: sign language, lip reading, subtitles. Early diagnosis and intervention essential, especially in pediatric age, to prevent language and cognitive delays.

Learn more on Wikipedia