Toward the Necessary Universalizing of a Disability Policy

Issues confronting people with disabilities do not result solely from physical or mental impairment, but from the fit between impairments and practically every feature of the social, economic, physical, and political environment. Changes in housing, transportation, and employment policies would augment the quality of daily living for those with disabilities today and in the future. With the entire population facing chronic illness and activity limitations, a universal approach to disability is virtually required, rather than policies focusing exclusively on a person's special needs. The absence of such a universal perspective will lead to the expansion and perpetuation of the segregated and unequal society visible at present.