Developmental Disability Definition
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a Developmental Disability is defined as a condition that emerges prior to an individual reaching the age of twenty-two (22) years. This disability significantly impacts the individual and is linked to mental retardation or related disorders, which may include conditions such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, or other neurological disorders. These conditions lead to impairments in general intellectual functioning or adaptive behavior that are comparable to those experienced by individuals with mental retardation.
Impairment in general intellectual functioning indicates that the individual has an intellectual quotient that is two or more standard deviations below the average (70 or lower, assuming a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15). This assessment must be conducted using a standardized instrument that is suitable for the specific nature of the individual's disability and administered by a qualified professional. It is essential to take into account the standard error of measurement of the instrument when determining the intellectual quotient. In cases where standardized measurement of general intellectual functioning is not feasible, the evaluation conducted by a qualified professional will be utilized.
The term "adaptive behavior similar to that of a person with mental retardation" refers to an individual's overall adaptive behavior that falls two or more standard deviations below the mean across two or more skill areas, which may include communication, self-care, home living, social skills, community use, self-direction, health and safety, functional academics, leisure, and work. This assessment must also be performed using a standardized instrument that is appropriate for the individual's living environment and evaluated by a qualified professional.
The limitations in adaptive behavior are directly caused by, or significantly influenced by, the individual's substantial intellectual deficits and cannot be solely attributed to a physical or sensory impairment or mental illness.
What are intellectual disabilities?
Intellectual disabilities refer to limitations in an individual's capacity to learn at a typical level and to function effectively in everyday life. The severity of intellectual disabilities in children can vary significantly, ranging from mild to profound challenges.
Children with intellectual disabilities may struggle to communicate their desires and needs, as well as to manage personal care independently.
These disabilities can result in a slower pace of learning and development compared to peers of the same age. For instance, a child with an intellectual disability may take longer to acquire skills such as speaking, walking, dressing, or eating without assistance, and they may face difficulties in an academic setting.
The origins of intellectual disabilities can arise from various factors occurring before a child reaches the age of 18, including prenatal issues. Potential causes include injuries, illnesses, or abnormalities in brain development. In many cases, the specific cause of a child's intellectual disability remains unidentified. Among the more frequently recognized causes are conditions such as Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, fragile X syndrome, genetic disorders, congenital anomalies, and infections, which typically occur before birth. Other causes may arise during the birthing process or shortly thereafter, while some may develop later in childhood due to severe head injuries, strokes, or specific infections.
Signs of intellectual disability?
Typically, the severity of intellectual disability correlates with the early emergence of observable signs. Nevertheless, it can remain challenging to predict the long-term impact on young children. Numerous indicators of intellectual disability exist. For instance, children exhibiting intellectual disability may:
- sit up, crawl, or walk later than other children
- learn to talk later, or have trouble speaking
- find it hard to remember things
- have trouble understanding social rules
- have trouble seeing the results of their actions
- have trouble solving problems
What Is Person Centered Planning?
Person-centered planning represents a distinctive, individualized method for organizing services and supports for those in need. This approach plays a crucial role in empowering individuals to express their preferences during the planning process and to take an active role in determining their future. It provides a systematic framework for organizing planning efforts that prioritize the individual’s unique values, strengths, preferences, capabilities, needs, and desired outcomes or goals.
Supporting a family member who is aging or dealing with a chronic illness or disability is an experience that many of us encounter at various stages of life. Navigating the complex landscape of medical and community resources can be challenging and does not follow a straightforward path.