Understanding the needs of employees who may face challenges in the workplace due to health conditions is essential for fostering an inclusive and supportive work environment. Employees might express difficulties performing specific tasks or mention barriers that impact their productivity, even if they don’t use formal language to request adjustments. For instance, comments about physical discomfort, challenges with meeting deadlines, or difficulties with focus can signal an underlying need for additional support. When employers actively listen to these cues, they show a commitment to valuing the well-being of their workforce, creating an atmosphere where employees feel comfortable sharing their challenges openly.
By proactively recognizing these subtle indicators, employers can help employees maintain productivity and job satisfaction. Addressing such needs early can also prevent minor issues from escalating into larger challenges, which ultimately benefits both the employee and the organization. Whether it’s modifying workstations, offering flexibility with schedules, or providing additional tools, small adjustments can make a significant difference. Prioritizing employee needs in this way not only enhances individual performance but also strengthens the company’s overall culture, as employees feel seen, supported, and motivated to contribute their best work.
Here are 30 examples of statements an employee might make that indicate a potential need for a reasonable accommodation under the ADA, even if they don’t explicitly mention “ADA” or “reasonable accommodation”:
- “I’m having trouble getting to work on time due to my treatment schedule.”
- “I’m finding it difficult to keep up with the workload because of my health condition.”
- “My current workstation causes a lot of discomfort due to my back issues.”
- “I need more frequent breaks than usual to manage my condition.”
- “I can’t sit for extended periods without experiencing pain.”
- “I’m experiencing difficulties focusing ever since I started on new medication.”
- “I can’t lift heavy objects like I used to because of my surgery.”
- “The fluorescent lights in the office are triggering my migraines.”
- “I need a quieter space to work due to my sensitivity to noise.”
- “My hands hurt a lot when I type for extended periods.”
- “I’m finding it challenging to read on my computer screen for long due to my vision issues.”
- “I’m not able to use the stairs anymore, and I noticed there’s no elevator access to my floor.”
- “I’m feeling physically drained by the end of the day because of my condition.”
- “Standing all day is becoming really difficult for me due to my recent health issues.”
- “I need help managing some tasks that require fine motor skills because my hands aren’t as steady.”
- “My medication makes me feel drowsy in the afternoon, which is affecting my work.”
- “I’m having difficulty concentrating and staying organized since my diagnosis.”
- “I need to avoid tasks that require climbing due to my balance issues.”
- “The temperature in the office makes it challenging for me to stay comfortable with my condition.”
- “I can’t carry heavy files back and forth to meetings anymore due to my back issues.”
- “I’m having trouble seeing certain colors, which makes it hard for me to read reports.”
- “Sitting through long meetings without breaks is becoming really painful.”
- “Using the phone for long periods causes strain on my neck due to my recent injury.”
- “I’m finding it difficult to meet deadlines because of my condition.”
- “Typing for long hours is causing pain in my wrists.”
- “It’s challenging for me to work a full eight-hour shift without breaks.”
- “I can’t make the early morning meetings due to my new treatment schedule.”
- “I’ve been feeling more fatigued than usual and need help with my tasks.”
- “The air quality in this part of the office is causing breathing difficulties for me.”
- “My joints get stiff, and I need to get up and stretch frequently during the day.”
Each of these statements can be a subtle indication that the employee is experiencing difficulties due to a health condition and might need a reasonable accommodation. Recognizing these cues allows employers to open the interactive process, ensuring the employee receives the support they need to perform their job effectively.
Take the time to listen, observe, and respond—by proactively engaging in these conversations, you foster an inclusive and supportive workplace where every employee can thrive. Start recognizing these cues today to make a positive impact on your team’s well-being and productivity.
Elga Lejarza
Founder/CEO
