What Is A Developmental Disability?

A developmental disability is a cognitive and/or physical impairment that emerges in childhood, is expected to continue indefinitely through adulthood, and may impact day-to-day functioning.

Developmental Disabilities include:

  • Autism
  • Cerebral Palsy
  • Epilepsy
  • Intellectual Disability
  • Other Similar Conditions

People with these types of disabilities face challenges and limitations in everyday life activities, such as difficulty with language, communication, mobility, learning, socialization, self-help and an inability to live independently. This affected population is at a heightened risk for chronic health conditions and mental health issues. Some can even be diagnosed with having co-occurring mental health conditions, referred to as“dual diagnosis.”

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in six (about 15%) children aged 3 through 17 years has one or more developmental disabilities. This statistic does not include adults who suffer from intellectual and developmental disabilities, which is why bringing awareness to this important cause is key to help those in dire need.

Learn more about the different types of intellectual and developmental disabilities and how people cope:

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