Intellectual Disability

What is an intellectual disability?

An intellectual disability (ID) is characterized by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning (reasoning, learning, problem solving) and in adaptive behavior (self-care, social communication, interacting with others). This disability begins before the age of 18, and a person is considered intellectually disabled if their tested IQ is lower than 70-75. ID can be classified into different levels of severity, depending on the level of impairment.

What are the signs of intellectual disability?

Signs of an intellectual disability all surround decreased intellectual function and adaptive behaviors.

These signs of intellectual disability vary from person to person and include, but are not limited to:

• Difficulties with problem solving, reasoning, planning, abstract thinking, learning from experience
• Deficits in academic learning, learning new information, or building on previously learned concepts
• Limited social responsibility and personal independence
• Adaptive deficits in activities of daily living like communication, social participation, and independent living
• Difficulties with social judgement
• Poor assessment of risk, self-management of emotions/behaviors/relationships, disruptive or aggressive behaviors
• Lack of motivation, lack of awareness, gullibility

An individual with an ID may show only some of these signs and it is not unusual to show multiple signs above. Based on clinical interview and test data gathered during your neuropsychological evaluation, Thomson’s neuropsychologists can determine which clinical presentation is a better fit for your case.

What is the treatment for an intellectual disability?

If you or your child are diagnosed with an ID, it is important to obtain the recommended services and interventions discussed with a neuropsychologist. Obtaining appropriate interventions are crucial to avoid further decline in academic or occupational performance. Thomson’s neuropsychologists can help you better understand you or your child’s learning needs and refer you to appropriate services.

Thomson’s cognitive rehabilitation therapists can partner with you and/or your child to teach academic strategies (e.g., organization, memory). Our therapists are skilled in addressing the impact of ID on both your and your child’s psychological health so that feelings of frustration, depression, or anxious worry do not worsen. Our neuropsychologists can discuss how to obtain an individualized classroom education plan for your child to get specific accommodations at school to maximize your child’s ability to benefit from education and demonstrate his/her skill set. We are ready to provide you referrals to outside providers who may help facilitate your or your child’s academic and work performance.