vammainen

Vammainen is a Finnish adjective meaning disabled. When referring to people, the term can function as a noun, for example as “vammainen” or “vammainen henkilö.” In contemporary Finnish, there is awareness of person-first language, and in formal contexts alternatives such as “henkilö, jolla on vamma” are used to emphasize the person before the condition. The word and related forms are generally neutral, but sensitivities around tone and context can influence how they are received.

Vammaisuus is understood as both a physical or mental condition and a social phenomenon shaped by environments and accessibility. Finnish discourse emphasizes inclusion, equal rights, and the removal of barriers in everyday life. Public policy and services aim to support independence, participation, and equal opportunities for people with disabilities, through measures such as accessible design, rehabilitation, and social welfare support. Education and employment systems likewise address accessibility and reasonable accommodation to promote participation.

Language use around disability continues to evolve. Advocates promote respectful, person-centered expressions, and many public texts encourage formulations like “henkilö, jolla on vamma” to acknowledge the person first. The discussion reflects broader commitments to human rights, autonomy, and equality for people with disabilities in Finnish society.

See also: vammaisuus, saavutettavuus, yhdenvertaisuus.