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Intellectual disability involves problems with general mental abilities that affect functioning in two areas:
Intellectual disability affects about one percent of the population, and of those about 85 percent have mild intellectual disability. Intellectual disability is identified by problems in both intellectual and adaptive functioning.
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United Cerebral Palsy (UCP)
ARC for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
I have heard the terms intellectual disability and developmental disability. Are they the same?
These terms are not the same, though there is some overlap. Developmental disability is a broad category that includes intellectual disability (ID) as well as autism spectrum disorder and other developmental diagnoses. Intellectual disability refers to people whose cognitive ability and adaptive functioning are significantly below average. People with autism spectrum disorder have difficulties with social interaction and impairments in communication; many also have intellectual disability. Read More
At what age can a child be evaluated for intellectual disability?
Parents and caretakers are often the first to notice delays in a child’s development.
If you’re concerned about the development of your infant or toddler, or you suspect your child has a disability, talk with your child’s pediatrician. You may also contact your local early Intervention program directly (see links below) and ask to have your child evaluated. Early intervention is a national system of services that helps babies and toddlers (birth to 3 years) with developmental delays or disabilities. Evaluation is provided free of charge.
See contact information for state early intervention programs. Learn more about early intervention from the Center for Parent Information and Resources. Read More
What is involved in diagnosing intellectual disability?
Intellectual disability involves problems in both intellectual and adaptive functioning.
Intellectual functioning is assessed with an exam by a doctor and through standardized testing. While a specific full-scale IQ test score is no longer required for diagnosis, standardized testing is used as part of diagnosing intellectual disability. A full scale IQ score of around 70 to 75 indicates a significant limitation in intellectual functioning. However, the IQ score must be considered in relation to the bigger picture of the person’s general mental abilities. Also, specific areas of intellectual functioning (identified in IQ subtest scores) can vary a great deal. So the full scale IQ score may not accurately reflect overall intellectual functioning.
Adaptive functioning refers to a child’s abilities with common skills needed for everyday life compared to other children the same age. Three areas of adaptive functioning are considered: conceptual (such as language and academic skills); social (such as communication skills and the ability to follow rules); and practical (such as personal care and other daily life skills). Adaptive functioning is assessed through standardized measures (questionnaires/checklists) with the individual and through interviews with family members, teachers and caregivers. Read More
About the Expert:
Mark J. Hauser, M.D. Psychiatrist practicing in the Greater Boston Area President, On-Site Psychiatric Services, Inc.
Jordan, 32, loves his work. He lives with and assists his aging grandparents. He is able to help them with cooking, cleaning, and exercising daily. Jordan has been very successful at helping his grandparents live independently by maintaining the basic chores of their home and keeping a structured environment for them. He describes himself as "a good helper."
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MAR 28, 2020
The Hill
Patients with disabilities must receive the same level of lifesaving medical treatment from hospitals during the coronavirus pandemic as able-bodied patients, the Trump administration said. As states and hospitals develop plans about where to prioritize resources in the event care needs to be rationed, the administration issued a bulletin on Saturday to say it is still enforcing civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, disability, age and sex
MAR 17, 2020
Coronavirus Brings Added Worries for People with Disabilities Disability Scoop
The coronavirus pandemic has created unique concerns for caregivers and people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Individuals with disabilities likely have the same risk factors as the general population — those who are older or have compromised immune systems are most vulnerable to the virus. But anyone with intellectual disability, moderate to severe developmental delay, muscular dystrophy or brain disorders may also be more susceptible to severe illness from COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
MAR 5, 2020
Scientists Unravel Mystery of Rare Genetic Disorder that Causes Intellectual Disability in Females
UCSF News
Scientists have made a significant advance toward understanding a rare genetic condition, almost exclusively affecting females, that results in a broad spectrum of neurodevelopmental deficits. Symptoms range from movement and speech impairment on the mild end of the spectrum to severe intellectual disability, autism, brain malformation and drastically reduced brain size on the more extreme end.
Physician Reviewed
Ranna Parekh, M.D., M.P.H. July 2017