Signs

Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Intellectual and developmental disabilities (formerly known as mental retardation) are states of functioning that begin in childhood and are characterized by limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive skills.

There are many signs of intellectual and developmental disabilities. For instance, children may:

Sit up, crawl, or walk later than other children
Learn to talk later, or have trouble speaking
Find it hard to remember things
Not understand how to pay for things
Have trouble understanding social rules
Have trouble seeing the consequences of their actions
Have trouble solving problems
Have trouble thinking logically

According to the Texas State Department of Aging & Disability Services, intellectual and developmental disabilities are defined as a permanent condition originating sometime between birth and age 18. The person’s general intellectual functioning is significantly below average and his or her behavior does not meet the level of personal independence and social responsibility expected of the person’s age and culture. Intellectual and developmental disabilities are found among all races and cultures. An estimated three percent of the population have intellectual and developmental disabilities.. Some Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities choose to live alone, with their families, in community-based group homes – which range from large to small – or in state assisted living facilities. Choice is an important aspect of the planning process. Individuals make choices about where they want to live, what they want to learn, where they want to work, what they do for fun and more.

About 87% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities will only be a little slower than average in learning new information and skills. When they are children, their limitations may not be obvious. They may not even be diagnosed as having intellectual and developmental disabilities until they get to school. As they become adults, many people with mild intellectual and developmental disabilities can live independently. Other people may not even consider them as having intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The remaining 13% of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities score below 50 on IQ tests. These people will have more difficulty in school, at home, and in the community. A person with more severe intellectual and developmental disabilities will need more intensive support his or her entire life. Every child with intellectual and developmental disabilities is able to learn, develop, and grow. With help, all children with intellectual and developmental disabilities can live a satisfying life.

Texas Panhandle Centers provides a broad spectrum of services for people with all ranges of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our goal is to provide opportunities for skills development, socialization and promote lives of dignified independence.