What Are the Top 10 Disabilities in Texas?
If you or a loved one is living with a disability in Bedford, Texas, you may be wondering about the types of disabilities that are most common in the state and how they might affect your rights. Disabilities, whether physical, mental, or developmental, can significantly impact an individual’s daily life, but they also come with legal protections. Under both Texas state law and federal law (including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)), individuals with disabilities are entitled to certain rights, such as accommodations in the workplace, schools, and public spaces.
If you need help understanding your rights or navigating the disability benefits process in Texas, an experienced personal injury lawyer can assist you. Schedule a free consultation and secure the support you deserve.
1. Arthritis
Arthritis is one of the most common disabilities in Texas, affecting a large portion of the population, particularly older adults. Arthritis involves inflammation of the joints, causing pain, swelling, and limited mobility. In Texas, over 1.4 million people live with arthritis, making it a significant health issue.
For individuals with arthritis, obtaining accommodations such as flexible work hours or assistive devices (like mobility aids) may be essential to maintaining an active and independent life.
2. Heart Disease
Heart disease, including conditions like coronary artery disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias, is another prevalent disability in Texas. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 1 in 3 adults in Texas suffer from heart disease.
People with heart disease may experience limitations in physical activity, making it necessary for them to seek disability benefits or workplace accommodations. Individuals with heart conditions may qualify for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) if the condition severely impairs their ability to work.
3. Back and Spine Disorders
Back and spine disorders, including herniated discs, spinal cord injuries, and degenerative disc disease, are also common in Texas. These conditions can lead to chronic pain and difficulty standing or walking for extended periods, which may affect a person’s ability to perform daily tasks or work activities.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that employers and public spaces make reasonable accommodations for people with mobility impairments due to back and spine conditions. Individuals in Bedford can file for disability benefits if these conditions prevent them from maintaining steady employment.
4. Mental Health Conditions
Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia are increasingly recognized as disabilities in Texas. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly 1 in 5 adults in Texas live with some form of mental illness.
Mental Health Conditions can often arise if you or a loved one have been involved in a personal injury accident. Speak with an attorney to discuss your legal options.
5. Diabetes
Diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes, is a growing health issue in Texas, with over 2 million Texans diagnosed. Diabetes can lead to a variety of complications, including nerve damage, vision problems, and mobility issues. These complications may interfere with daily activities and work.
6. Stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident)
A stroke is a medical emergency that can result in long-term disability, including paralysis, speech difficulties, and cognitive impairments. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS), strokes are a leading cause of disability in the state, especially among older adults.
Stroke survivors may require assistive devices, rehabilitation, or adjustments to their home and workplace environments. In Texas, the ADA mandates that individuals who experience stroke-related disabilities receive reasonable accommodations to support their recovery and ensure they can continue to work or participate in public activities.
7. Cancer
Cancer is a major health concern in Texas, and its treatments—such as chemotherapy or surgery—can result in temporary or permanent disabilities. People with cancer often experience fatigue, pain, and difficulty with physical tasks during treatment, making them eligible for accommodations under the ADA.
8. Hearing Impairments
Hearing impairments, including partial or complete hearing loss, affect a significant number of Texans. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), over 1 million Texans experience hearing loss to some degree.
9. Vision Impairments
Vision impairment, which ranges from partial vision loss to complete blindness, is another disability affecting many Texans. People with vision impairment may experience difficulties in work, mobility, and daily living.
In Texas, individuals with vision impairments are entitled to accommodations such as assistive technology, alternative formats for written materials, and physical adjustments to workspaces.
10. Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple Sclerosis is a progressive disease of the central nervous system that causes symptoms such as fatigue, vision problems, difficulty walking, and cognitive impairments. MS affects around 12,000 Texans and can be debilitating as it progresses over time.
A Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help if You’re Dealing With a Disability
If you or a loved one is dealing with a disability in Bedford, Texas, it’s important to understand both the medical and legal aspects of living with a disability. From arthritis to cancer, the top 10 disabilities in Texas can significantly affect an individual’s quality of life, but there are protections in place to ensure that people with disabilities have access to accommodations, benefits, and support.
Contact the Personal injury Law Firm of Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers in Texas for Help Today
For more information, please contact an experienced personal injury lawyer at Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have convenient locations in Bedford and Fort Worth, Texas.
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Bedford
2317 Plaza Pkwy #100,
Bedford, TX 76021
(817) 503-9200
Parker Law Firm Injury Lawyers – Fort Worth
209 N Hampton St,
Fort Worth, TX 76102
(817) 839-3143
