What is Intellectual Disability?

Intellectual Disability occurs in the developmental period of life (before age 18) and is characterised by significant limitation both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behaviors.

Intellectual Disability can affect a person in the following ways:

  • it may take longer to learn things

  • it may affect how a person communicates

  • it may affect how a person socialises

  • difficulty reading and writing

  • difficulty understanding abstract concepts, problem solving or decision making 

  • difficulty adapting to unfamiliar situations

How can disability service providers support individuals and families?

There are a range of disability organisations available that support people with a disability to reach their own individual goals and aspirations for life. Whether that may be finding a job, or engaging in social activities, disability organisations can support you to discover what is possible for your life.

Disability organisations may provide support in the following areas:

provision of accommodation

  • support to live independently

  • development of life skills

  • recreation and leisure opportunities

  • support to study and learn

  • employment opportunities

  • support to access the community

  • respite services

  • behaviour support

 

This info sheet was kindly provided by Life Stream Australia

Life Stream Australia Provides services in South East Queensland - visit them at www.lifestream.org.au