What Are Development Disabilities? | Medical Care Development

If you or someone you love suffers from a lifelong physical or mental disability that makes it difficult to function normally in society, then it is classified as a development disability. You may have one of the usual problems that people with such disabilities face: you may find it difficult to be self-sufficient and live independently, you may have problems communicating and moving, you may find it difficult to learn new things, and you may be unable to take care of yourself.

In the past people with such difficulties were institutionalized as there was no proper support system in place to make them a part of society. However, there have been many laws in the US that have been trying to ensure that people with developmental disabilities are included into the community and are taught ways to take care of themselves.

What is a developmental disability?

Such a disability is not a temporary delay in development caused due to childhood trauma or some other event.

Permanent syndromes such as Down syndrome, many genetic disorders, mental retardation, cerebral palsy and autism are included in the list of such disabilities. They may be of varying intensities. People with mild disabilities may be able to live on their own, while those with severe cases need lifelong care.

Causes of Developmental Disabilities

Though no definitive cause has been discovered for these disabilities yet, there are some environmental and social conditions that result in the growth of these disabilities. These may include:
* Congenital brain injury or infection
* Nutrition problems before, during or after birth
* Genetic or chromosomal abnormalities
* Lack of health care for the mother
* Drug abuse, excessive intake of alcohol and too much smoking by the pregnant mother
* Child abuse that may result in brain injury and cause difficulties in learning and emotional development
* Autism-related disorder

Support systems that can help the disabled

There are a number of therapies that can help a disabled individual become a part of the community. These include:
* Occupational therapy: experts work with individuals to enhance motor skills and help in other aspects of daily living.
* Speech therapy: Therapists work with picture books and other strategies to improve the communication ability of the patients.
* Nurses can be hired to be available all the time to monitor the individuals and administer medication.
* Fitness and exercise is necessary for the overall well-being of the individual.
* Health and nutrition is also monitored under the care of nutritionists.
* Social skill groups involving crafts, games and dancing can help the individuals feel a part of the community.

It is important to put much thought into the care of those with development disabilities. Dartmouth MA has a number of care centers to help the disabled feel like a part of the community. It is important to help them build their self-esteem and confidence so that they can start depending more and more on themselves and live the life that they deserve as well as anybody else.

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