The term Intellectual Disability (ID) refers to a person who has limitations with learning at certain levels and functioning in daily life. People with Intellectual Disabilities may have difficulty expressing their wants and needs and might struggle with functional self-help skills. This often causes slower development and learning than other people of the same age. It is not uncommon to see someone with ID needing accommodations academically. They often experience speech and learning delays and might require assistance with daily living skills such as eating, dressing, and hygiene.

The causes of ID can vary and may even occur before or during birth. It might be the result of injury, disease, or brain injuries. Sometimes the cause is unknown and other times it occurs in-utero. Examples of this are Down Syndrome, Fetal Alcohol Syndrome, Fragile-X Syndrome, Genetics, certain birth defects, and infections. It can also occur during birth or shortly after. It can also happen to children at an older age; these cases might include serious head injury, stroke, or certain infections. In order to qualify for services in these programs, it must occur before the age of 18 and be likely to continue indefinitely.

Please reach out if some you know and love has an Intellectual Disability and is looking for services and support!