Glossary D - G

Disability (Definition from the Disability Act 2005)

Disability, in relation to a person, means a substantial restriction in the capacity of the person to carry out a profession, business or occupation in the State, or to participate in social or cultural life in the State by reason of an enduring physical, sensory, mental health or intellectual impairment.

Persons with a disability entitled to services in Part 2 of the Disability Act 2005 are those with a “substantial restriction” which is permanent or likely to be permanent, results in significant difficulty in communication, learning or mobility or in significantly disordered cognitive processes and requires that services be provided continually to the person whether or not a child, or, if the person is a child, that services be provided in early life to ameliorate the disability.

Early Intervention

Intervention undertaken to influence the development and learning of young children (birth to six years) with or at risk of developing disabilities (Collum 2002).

Early Services

Services provided to a child up to the age when they start primary school.

Family-centred Services

A method of service delivery that: recognises parents as the experts on their child’s needs; promotes partnership between parents and the service providers; and supports the family’s role in decision-making about services for their child.

Fine Motor

Relates to the use of the small muscles of the body such as those in the face, hands, feet, fingers and toes.

Gross Motor

Relates to the use of the large muscles of the body such as those in the legs, arms, and abdomen.