What Are Developmental Disabilities?
It is estimated that there are more than 4.5 million Americans with developmental disabilities
. Many of these people have severely debilitating conditions, but there are several others who would greatly benefit from those providing employment for adults with developmental disabilities.
Developmental disabilities are a diverse collection of mild to severe conditions that impair mental and/or physical abilities. Mental retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome are four of the most common forms. With some understanding, businesses can find ways to accommodate to their needs and provide employment for adults with developmental disabilities.
The most common developmental disability is mental retardation. In general, conditions of mental retardation will have presented by the time the person is 18 years old. It is defined by the American Association of Mental Retardation as a significant limitation in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.
In 2002, mental retardation was redefined to emphasize the potential of an individual with mental retardation to become more functional and adaptive with some assistance. Technological advancements have resulted in an increase of multimedia disability training resources that help the mentally challenged develop their intellectual capabilities. Companies can use these resources if they wish to extend employment for adults with disabilities.
One of the most complex and wide-ranging disabilities is autism. It can be severely debilitating or it can be functional. Other impairments, such as mental retardation, may be present in the individual in addition to autism. If this is the case, symptoms can be more severe.
It is very important for symptoms of autism to be identified early. The earlier it is identified, the greater the likelihood of the individual learning effective communication and social skills. Employment for adults with developmental disabilities is a reality with regards to autism when symptoms are identified and dealt with early on. Human resource professionals are encouraged to undergo disability training and education centered around autism.
The New England Journal of Medicine defines cerebral palsy as "a broad, inclusive term for a group of capricious but non progressive motor impairment syndromes secondary to anomalies of the brain arising in the early stages of development." Most cases of cerebral palsy are congenital, caused by such things as illness during pregnancy or premature birth.
Companies can make great use out of people afflicted with cerebral palsy. Communication technology and mobility devices assist these people to speak and move freely. Those in the office will need to be aware of such individuals and be willing to assist when extra attention is needed.
Approximately 1 in 700 people are born with Down syndrome. It is a chromosomal defect in which there is all or part of an extra 21st chromosome. It is a very unique disability with symptoms such as low muscle tone, small stature, and intellectual impairment.
Up until relatively recently, life expectancy for individuals with Down syndrome was very low. In 1929, life expectancy was around 9 years old. It has risen to over 50 years old now, meaning employment for adults with developmental disabilities is more common and available.
Developmental disabilities vary in severity, but they can live healthy, productive lives. Companies that provide employment for adults with developmental disabilities can play a large role in helping them. Disability education is important and can make a difference in many amazing peoples' lives.
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By: Ted Sorto
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