Definition and Classification
According to the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), Other Health Impairment is
defined as having limited strength, vitality, or alertness, including a heightened alertness to
environmental stimuli, that results in limited alertness with respect to the educational
environment. (IDEA, 2004) A child’s educational performance is affected. Health issues included
but not limited to asthma, sickle cell anemia, leukemia, heart condition, lead poisoning, and
diabetes.
Characteristics
Characteristics of other health impairments include but are not limited to fatigue,
difficulty with mobility, difficulty concentrating for long periods of time, difficulty paying
attention, difficulties with coordination, and muscle weakness.
Causes
Other health impairments can be caused by health problems that are acute or chronic.
What this mean is that the problem will last for an extended period (longer than 60 days) or for a
lifetime. They can also be cause by accidents, in which improvement can be expected.
Prevalence
According to the U.S. Department of Education, approximately 12.0 percent of students
having a classification in special education are represented by other health impairments.