Characteristics of Intellectual disability

Characteristics of Intellectual disability

Each intellectually disabled person presents with different types of characteristics, based on the severity of the retardation, adaptive skills and other co-existing disorders.

The characteristics of intellectual disability depend on the severity of the developmental delay and also the co-existing conditions.

Mild Intellectual Disability

• No unusual physical signs, but slight delay in developmental milestones.
• Capable of self-help skills.
• Can learn practical skills.
• Knowledge of reading, writing and mathematical abilities up to grade 3-6.

• Can function normally in the society.
• Normal social interactions and communicative skills.

Moderate Intellectual Disability

• May or may not have unusual physical signs.
• Noticeable delay in developmental milestones.
• Simple communicative skills.
• Can learn basic self-help skills, hygiene and safety skills.
• Can do simple tasks under supervision.
• Can travel to unfamiliar places with proper instructions.

Severe Intellectual Disability

• Noticeable motor impairment is seen.
• Significant delay in developmental milestones.
• Limited communicative skills, but can understand and respond to others speech.
• Routine self-help skills and repetitive activities can be taught and followed.
• Requires close supervision in social situations.

Profound Intellectual Disability

• Significantly slow in developmental milestones.
• Presence of congenital physical anomalies.
• Requires close supervision and constant care.
• Not capable of self-care routines and activities.
• Response to physical and social activities is possible only if done on regular basis.

References:

1. Intellectual disability - (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intellectual_disability)
2. Department of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry - (http://www.aboutourkids.org/families/disorders_treatments/az_disorder_guide/mental_retardation/diagnosis)