Cognitive impairments, information technology systems and the workplace

21.3 million Americans have some form of cognitive disability and a large majority of these individuals are working age adults (Braddock, 2005). Cognitive impairment, often labeled as a "hidden disability" is loosely defined as a disability that affect's an individuals awareness; memory; and ability to learn, process information, communicate and make decisions. "Cognition" refers to "understanding," the ability to comprehend what one sees and hears, and to infer information from social cues and body language. Persons with cognitive impairments have difficulty learning new things, expressing themselves through spoken or written language, and making generalizations from one situation to another (Davis, 2000).