Intellectual disability/Mental Retardation

What is Intellectual Disability?

Intellectual disability involves problems with general mental abilities that affect functioning in two areas:

Intellectual functioning (such as learning, problem solving, judgement). Adaptive functioning (activities of daily life such as communication and independent living).

Additionally, the intellectual and adaptive deficit begin early in the developmental period.

Intellectual disability affects about 1% of the population, and of those about 85% have mild intellectual disability. Males are more likely than females to be diagnosed with intellectual disability.

Diagnosing Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability is identified by problems in both intellectual and adaptive functioning.

Intellectual functioning is measured with individually administered and psychometrically valid, comprehensive, culturally appropriate, psychometrically sound tests of intelligence. While a specific full-scale IQ test score is no longer required for diagnosis, standardized testing is used as part of diagnosing the condition. A full-scale IQ score of around 70 to 75 indicates a significant limitation in intellectual functioning.2 However, the IQ score must be interpreted in the context of the person’s difficulties in general mental abilities. Moreover, scores on subtests can vary considerably so that the full-scale IQ score may not accurately reflect overall intellectual functioning. Therefore, clinical judgment is needed in interpreting the results of IQ tests.

Treatment
Intellectual disability is a life-long condition. However, early and ongoing intervention may improve functioning and enable the person to thrive throughout their lifetime. Underlying medical or genetic conditions and co-occurring conditions frequently add to the complex lives of people with intellectual disability.

Early intervention (infants and toddlers).
Special education.
Family support (for example, respite care support groups for families).
Transition services from childhood to adulthood.
Vocational programs.
Day programs for adults.
Housing and residential options.
Case management.