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Developmental Disabilities |
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A developmental disability is defined as a severe, chronic disability that is:
- Attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of the two; Manifested before the person reaches age 22;
- Likely to continue indefinitely;
- Classified by substantial functional limitations; and
- Classified by a person’s need for interdisciplinary or generic care, treatment, or other services that are of lifelong or extended duration.
Disabilities such as brain injury, autism, cerebral palsy, and other neurological impairments may be considered developmental disabilities as well. For example, autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Autism is the result of a neurological disorder that affects the functioning of the brain. Children and adults with autism typically have difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities. Persons with autism may exhibit repeated body movements (hand flapping, rocking), unusual responses to people or attachments to objects, and resistance to changes in routines.
CEREBRAL PALSY
Cerebral palsy is a condition caused by damage to the brain, usually occurring before, during, or shortly after birth. Cerebral palsy is characterized by an inability to fully control motor functions. This may include stiff and difficult movements, involuntary and uncontrolled movements, or a disturbed sense of balance and depth perception. People with cerebral palsy may exhibit spasms, mobility impairments in sight, hearing, or speech, or mental retardation.
The American Association of Mental Retardation states that mental retardation is a disability characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behavior as expressed in conceptual, social, and practical adaptive skills. The disability, originating before the age of 18, is thought to be present if the individual has an intellectual functioning (IQ) of 70 or below.
DOWN SYNDROME
Down syndrome, the most common cause of mental retardation, is a condition caused by a chromosome abnormality in which cell development inexplicably results in 47 instead of 46 chromosomes. The extra chromosome affects the orderly development of the brain and body. The level of mental retardation for persons with Down syndrome may range from mild to severe, with the majority functioning in the mild to moderate range.
Suggestions to Improve Access and Positive Interactions
- Interact with the person with a developmental disability as a person first.
- Avoid talking about a person with a developmental disability when that person is present.
- Break down concepts into small, easy-to-understand components.
- If necessary, involve an advocate when communicating with a person with a developmental disability.
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