What is the definition of permanent disability?

Permanent disability is defined as a condition that prevents an individual from being able to work for the rest of their life. This encompasses various medical conditions, injuries, or illnesses that have lasting effects, resulting in the person being unable to engage in any gainful employment. The key aspect that distinguishes permanent disability is the long-term or lifelong nature of the inability to work, which is crucial in many insurance policies and social security contexts, as it impacts eligibility for benefits.

The other choices do not adequately capture the essence of permanent disability. While the option that mentions an inability to perform some duties throughout life hints at a long-term issue, it lacks the definitive element of total inability to work for life which is critical in the landscape of insurance. The mention of short-term incapacitation and recovery from a temporary illness directly contradicts the concept of permanence, as they imply a return to health and the ability to work again. Thus, the clearest and most accurate definition of permanent disability is the inability to work for the rest of their life.