What is the meaning of "reasonable accommodation" under the ADA?

The term "reasonable accommodation" under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) refers to modifications or adjustments made to a job or work environment that enable a qualified individual with a disability to perform their job duties effectively. This could involve a range of actions, such as altering work schedules, providing specialized equipment, making physical changes to the workspace, or offering support services.

The purpose of reasonable accommodations is to ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to employment opportunities and can contribute fully to their workplace. These accommodations are tailored to the specific needs of the employee while maintaining the functionality and integrity of the workplace.

In contrast, merely increasing salaries for disabled employees, offering benefits specifically for older individuals, or reserving jobs solely for disabled individuals do not align with the definition of reasonable accommodation as intended by the ADA. These other options do not focus on enabling individuals with disabilities to perform their jobs or making necessary adjustments to support their employment.