The Developmental Disabilities Population
Developmental disabilities are disabling conditions, which occur before adulthood and have a sustained impact on an individual's cognitive, social, and/or physical development. Developmental disabilities usually involve dysfunction of, or injury to, the central nervous system.
Range of Disabilities
The definition of developmental disability in terms of eligibility to receive publicly funded services is determined by the presence of autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, mental retardation, neurological impairment, or a related condition that has onset before age 22, and has a substantial impact on a person's ability to function independently. Neurological impairments include such specific conditions as neurologically based severe learning disabilities, spina bifida, Tourette Syndrome, neurofibromatosis, narcolepsy, traumatic brain injury (originating before age 22), Prader-Willi syndrome, and sensory impairments caused by central nervous system disorders.
Needs
The needs of people with developmental disabilities vary widely according to the type and severity of the condition, age and other factors. At one end of the spectrum are those who require total care for their entire lives, while at the other end are people able to attain complete independence with minimal and/or periodic support services. Most people with developmental disabilities live in the community and lead productive lives.
