Every March, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is observed. A Developmental Disability can manifest as a range of disabilities affecting an individual's physical, intellectual or emotional development. Some Developmental Disabilities are considered invisible since the nature of the disability does not have a physical indicator, such as an inability to walk. These disabilities are also referred to as Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. (IDDs)
Developmental disabilities are present from birth and affect physical, intellectual and emotional development. While multiple body systems and organs can be affected, developmental disabilities commonly impact the brain and nervous system. Symptoms can be physical or mental and are usually life-long conditions that affect activities of daily living. This article explores what disabilities are considered developmental disabilities and provides tools and advice on how to accommodate individuals with developmental disabilities.
The definition of conditions and causes recognized as Developmental Disabilities or leading to Developmental Disabilities can vary slightly depending on the organization publishing the information.
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Rett Syndrome (Related to Autism Spectrum Disorder, found more often in females)
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Phenylketonuria (PKU) – possibly can cause Developmental Disability
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Congenital Hypothyroidism – possibly can cause Developmental Disability
How can I build awareness?
A cure does not exist for Developmental Disability conditions. Support and therapy in early childhood may improve an affected individual's later life. More severely affected individuals may require more support or accommodations, possibly through adulthood. Early intervention in childhood to detect and treat conditions provides the best outcome for affected individuals.
Some developmental disabilities can stem from exposure to alcohol, tobacco or other substances in utero. Awareness of how these substances can potentially cause damage remains the best option for the birth mother to make informed decisions and changes in her child's best interests.
Advanced stages of other diseases can also lead to Developmental Disabilities as well. Proper treatment and management of diseases such as Phenylketonuria (PKU) can avoid progression toward a Developmental Disability. Early detection and treatment of a condition remains the best way to enhance future quality of life. Support, such as educational services, may only be available for a certain period of time, especially if the disability is invisible.
When should parents or caregivers seek out information leading to a diagnosis?
Developmental disabilities are sometimes invisible and have been incorrectly considered childhood misbehavior or a personality quirk. Due to this, accommodations may not be offered, and individuals may not be aware that they have a developmental disability, especially if symptoms are very mild. There are no physical signs of disability. Parents with small children should consult their physician, preschool teacher, or other caregivers if they feel their child is not developing normally. The earlier a child is diagnosed, the earlier doctors can arrange treatment, therapy and accommodations.
Accommodations may be sought from institutions providing comprehensive support. Testing and observation provide the documentation necessary to obtain services, including those listed below.
For more information about therapies that a provider advises or prescribes, the National Library of Medicine Medline Plus has a search engine that provides links to trusted advice.
Educational interventions prepare a child to function in society as an adult. Further accommodations may include modifications allowing alternative content presentation and access to services. Access to accommodations and services may change based on age. For more information, see Resources for College Students with Disabilities and Are Online Tutors Required to be Accessible to see how developmental disabilities are accommodated in college and non-public educational settings. Accommodations may require an IEP or 504 Plan or may be limited to ADA compliance.
What is the legal definition of a Developmental Disability?
A Developmental Disability is a severe and chronic disability creating mental and physical impairments, continues indefinitely and is incurable. Legal definitions will vary according to the state or federal agency who will fund support. Laws designed to protect rights and equal access differ from entitlements designed to replace income for individuals unable to work or engage in activities of daily living due to their disability.
What laws ensure access to services? How are these laws different?
Education laws such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and general disability laws, including the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), will incorporate a broader definition of disability. The IDEA regulates public educational institutions and ensures that children have equal access to education. A person may be ineligible for services and support once they reach adulthood. For example, IEP Plans end when a student graduates from high school. ADA provides accessible access to public accommodations. Understanding relevant laws can be important for knowing a person's rights and what types of accommodations may be available due to legal rights.
An agency such as Social Security Administration handles entitlements for disabled individuals. While applicable disability laws still cover these individuals, a disability would be interpreted as sufficiently severe that an individual is permanently disabled and unable to perform life skills. The criteria for meeting this standard will be appropriate for the correspondingly severe level of disability.
Conclusion
Developmental Disabilities require accommodations dependent on the severity of a condition. Making accessible the highest quality of life is the focus of government support for disabilities. Being informed about the nature of developmental disabilities and options for treatment goes beyond awareness to provide solutions for individuals experiencing a developmental disability since early detection and treatment can be critical to ensuring future success.
Sources:
National Institutes of Health National Library of Medicine
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