Special Needs: Developmental Disabilities Explained

Developmental disabilities are lifelong disabilities resulting from physical or intellectual impairments, or a combination of both. These disabilities present themselves before the age of 22. Developmental disabilities impact daily functioning in three or more of the following areas:

• ability to support oneself economically
• ability to live independently
• mobility
• learning
• receptive and expressive language
• self-care
• self-direction

Developmental disabilities can be severe, moderate, or mild, depending on an individual’s support needs. People with intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders, or genetic disorders such as Down syndrome are said to have developmental disabilities.

Intellectual disabilities occur in childhood and are characterized by substantial limitations in cognitive functioning and adaptive skills. A person with an intellectual disability may have difficulties with functional academics, communication, conceptual skills, social skills, community use, health and safety, leisure, and work.

Intervention includes supports and specific strategies to promote the development, education, interests, and well-being of the child or adult. Individualized supports can improve daily functioning, promote self-determination, and strengthen inclusion into society.

Cerebral palsy (CP) is a chronic condition that affects movement and muscle coordination. It is caused by brain damage that occurs before, during, shortly after birth, or during infancy. CP does not get worse over time. Secondary conditions such as muscle spasticity (tightness), however, can develop and improve, get worse, or remain constant.

Children with CP may also have seizures, abnormal speech, hearing and visual impairments, and intellectual disability. Most people with CP have normal intelligence, though. Depending on the severity of CP, children with the condition may not be able to walk, talk, eat, or play in typical ways.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of disorders that can cause significant social, communication and behavioral challenges. ASDs are "spectrum disorders," meaning that they affect each person in different ways, and can range from very mild to severe. People with ASDs have problems with social interaction.

The types of ASD’s include autistic disorder, Asperger syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental Disorder – Not Otherwise Specified (PPD-NOS). Children with autistic disorder have significant language delays, social and communication challenges, and unusual behaviors and interests. Many people with autistic disorders have an intellectual disability, too.

Individuals with Asperger syndrome usually have milder symptoms of autistic disorder, with primarily social challenges and unusual behaviors and interests. People with PDD-NOS usually have fewer and milder symptoms than individuals with autistic disorder and might only have social and communication challenges.

Down syndrome occurs when a person has three, not two, copies of the 21^st chromosome. This chromosomal abnormality changes the course of development and causes mild to severe cognitive delays. Speech and language may also be delayed. Physical characteristics of Down syndrome can include poor muscle tone, small stature, heart problems, upward slanting eyes, and flat facial features. Children with Down syndrome are often treated with educational and behavioral interventions, speech and language interventions, and occupational therapy.

These disorders are only a few of the types of developmental disabilities. Whatever developmental disability an individual may have, early intervention is the key to the best possible outcome. Early intervention can include physical, occupational, and speech therapy, behavior modification, and other treatment tailored to the individual.