Definitions
- Referring to a decrease in the ability to perform a specific function or activity due to injury, illness, or disability. - Talking about a reduction in the quality or effectiveness of something. - Describing a limitation or weakness that affects one's ability to function normally.
- Referring to a gradual decline in the quality or condition of something over time. - Talking about a worsening of a situation or circumstance. - Describing a decline in health or well-being.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe a negative change in a situation or condition.
- 2Both words suggest a decline in quality or effectiveness.
- 3Both words can be used to describe physical or non-physical changes.
What is the difference?
- 1Cause: Impairment is often caused by injury, illness, or disability, while deterioration can be caused by various factors such as neglect, age, or environmental factors.
- 2Speed: Impairment can occur suddenly or gradually, while deterioration typically occurs gradually over time.
- 3Scope: Impairment is often specific to a certain function or activity, while deterioration can refer to a broader range of situations or circumstances.
- 4Severity: Impairment suggests a limitation or weakness, while deterioration suggests a more significant decline or worsening.
- 5Reversibility: Impairment may be reversible with treatment or therapy, while deterioration may be irreversible.
Remember this!
Impairment and deterioration both describe negative changes in a situation or condition, but they differ in their cause, speed, scope, severity, and reversibility. Impairment is often caused by injury, illness, or disability and may be specific to a certain function or activity, while deterioration typically occurs gradually over time and can be caused by various factors. Impairment suggests a limitation or weakness, while deterioration suggests a more significant decline or worsening.
