Discapacitado vs. minusválido
Both 'discapacitado' and 'minusválido' are Spanish terms used to refer to people with physical or mental disabilities. However, there are slight differences in connotation and usage that separate the two.
Discapacitado
This term is more commonly used today and is considered to be more respectful and inclusive. 'Discapacitado' can be directly translated as 'disabled'.
Mi primo es discapacitado pero es muy independiente.
(My cousin is disabled but very independent.)
El gobierno debe mejorar los servicios para los discapacitados.
(The government needs to improve services for the disabled.)
Minusválido
Although this is an older term, it is less frequently used today as it could be perceived as less positive, stressing the inferior condition ('menos válido' = 'less valid'). The direct translation is 'handicapped'.
Aquí hay un estacionamiento para minusválidos.
(Here there is a parking for handicapped people.)
Ser minusválido no impide a una persona tener una vida plena y feliz.
(Being handicapped does not prevent a person from having a full and happy life.)
Summary
While both 'discapacitado' and 'minusválido' refer to individuals with disabilities, the term 'discapacitado' is considered more respectful and is currently more commonly used in Spanish-speaking societies. However, contexts vary, and understanding the specifics of usage in different regions can be crucial.