Over 12% of the U.S. population is living with a disability, yet Individuals with disabilities experience lower education levels, lower employment rates, fewer household resources, and poorer health than people without disabilities. Social inequities surround Americans with disabilities, leading to increased stigma, fewer career and otherwise advancement opportunities, and increased obstacles for everyday endeavors. 

Nationally, only about 19% of people with a disability were employed, compared to over 65% of people without a disability. Many people who are living with a disability will give up seeking employment due to factors such as lack of on-the-job supports, transportation challenges, or a fear of losing health care or other benefits  

Approximately 19% of Indiana residents age five and older are currently living with a disability. As of 2015, 35% of Hoosiers with a disability were employed, but faced a higher likelihood of lower paying jobs with fewer benefits and advancement opportunities.  

Living with a disability can pose a variety of inequities for Hoosiers, specifically surrounding health care and health behaviors. Statistically, Americans with disabilities have less access to quality health care, are more likely to have depression or anxiety, and are more prone to risky health behaviors such as inactivity and smoking. These lead to poorer health outcomes for those individuals and poorer quality of life.