Intellectual and developmental disabilities is a state of functioning that begins in childhood and is characterized by limitation in both intelligence and adaptive skills. The term refers to substantial limitations in present functioning. It is characterized by significantly sub-average intellectual functioning, existing concurrently with related limitations.
These related limitations must appear in two or more of the following adaptive skill areas:
- communication
- health and safety
- self-care
- community use
- home living
- self-direction
- functional academics
- leisure or work
- social skills
With appropriate support services over a sustained period, the life functioning of the person with intellectual and developmental disabilities will generally improve. (American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, 2000)
