Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

What is meant by "major life activities" in relation to the ADA?

1. Activities that require advanced education

2. Activities that an average person can perform with little or no difficulty

3. Activities related to specific job skills

4. Activities that are limited to physical exercises

The correct answer is: Activities that an average person can perform with little or no difficulty

The term "major life activities," as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), encompasses a broad range of functions that are essential to daily living. This includes not just basic physical tasks such as walking, seeing, hearing, and breathing, but also includes more complex functions like learning, thinking, and working. The emphasis on activities that an average person can perform with little or no difficulty highlights the intention of the ADA to provide protections and accommodations for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to engage in these activities on equal footing with those without disabilities. Understanding this context is critical, as it reinforces the ADA's goal of inclusivity and equal opportunity. Major life activities are not limited to certain types of tasks, such as those requiring advanced education or specialized job skills, nor are they restricted to physical exercises. Instead, they cover a wide range of everyday functions, making the definition comprehensive and applicable to various aspects of life that can be impacted by a disability. This broad definition ensures that individuals who might face significant barriers in various life domains receive the necessary support and accessibility measures to participate fully in society.