Which statement best defines impairment?

• A. The resulting inability to perform a task.
• B. An impairment is a loss or abnormality of structure or function.
• C. The societal disadvantage due to environment.
• D. A device for assistance.

Answer: (B)

Impairment is a loss or abnormality of body structure or function. This biomedical view describes what is not working or is different in the body itself, independent of how it affects daily tasks or social participation. In rehab contexts, this is the starting point you’d assess to decide what kind of assistive technologies or therapies might help.

This differs from disability, which refers to difficulties in performing tasks or activities, and from participation restrictions, which relate to challenges in life roles and social involvement. It also isn’t about tools or environments, like a device for assistance or barriers in the environment.

So the definition that matches the term precisely is a loss or abnormality of structure or function.