Intellectual Disability (ID) – Mental Retardation (MR)

The flyers that I read was mentioning mental retardation instead of intelectual disability. I read in Internet that the term has slowly change to intellectual disability. But I will write as what I read in the flyers although I personally prefer using ID instead of MR.

Source : American Association on Mental Retardation. Mental Retardation : Definitions, Classifications, and Systems of Supports, www.aamr.org

What is mental retardation (MR)?

In general, a person with MR has an IQ lower than 70 (approximately two standard deviations below the mean), although this number may change based on how a person functions in his or her environment. A person with MR functions below age expectations in his or her daily activities, and require additional support by others compared to most children of the same age.

These are classifications of MR:

Mild retardation
About 85% of children with mental retardation. Children with mild retardation can generally learn reading, writing, and math skills between the third and sixth grade levels. In adulthood, they may have jobs and live independently.

Moderate Mental Retardation
About 10% of children with MR. Children with moderate MR may be able to learn some basic reading and writing. They are able to learn functional skill such as safety and self help. Adults with moderate MR usually require some type of oversight or supervision.

Severe Mental Retardation
About 5% of children with MR. They will not be able to read or write, although they may learn self help skills and routines. They will require supervision in their daily activities and living environment.

Profound Mental Retardation
About 1% of the children.

When is the diagnosis made?

The onset mental retardation is in childhood, before 18 years of age. The diagnosis is generally made after infancy, between the preschool and school age periods. Sometimes the diagnosis may be made later, at the time when thorough assessment is performed.

What causes mental retardation?

Mental retardation has many different causes, and sometimes biological, social, behavioral, and educational factors interact to affect how a person functions. Events that may be associated with the diagnosis of mental retardation may occur before, during, or after birth. There may be genetic (inherited) conditions, serious infections, vascular (blood vessels) problems, trauma (injury) to the brain, metabolic (body chemistry) conditions, or exposure to toxins (like lead or alcohol) than can all cause or contribute to mental retardation. It also may be difficult or not possible to identify a specific cause.

Can a child with MR have other disabilities?

A child with mental retardation may or may not have other disabilities. Some common developmental disabilities associated with mental retardation are autism, cerebral palsi, epilepsy, and vision or hearing impairments.

Will my child need medical tests?

A number of factors are considered when making the decision to perform medical tests. Not all children require that many tests be done. Your child’s presenting concerns, past medical history, family history, physical exam, and results of our evaluation or others will determine which tests, if any, are recommended.
Some test may affect the treatment of your child , while others may help in identifying a specific medical condition related to the diagnosis of mental retardation.

Will medications help my child?

There is no medications to treat mental retardation. It is considered a disabilities, not a disease. Sometime medication is used for other associated conditions or behavioral problems, such as difficulties with attention or mood.

How much help will my child need?

The amount of services that a child needs will vary for each individual based on the level of cognitive disability, adaptive skills, physical and emotional well being, and resources at home and in the community. In addition to identifying areas in which a child needs help, it is also important to build on his or her areas of strength.

What can I do to help my child?
While different therapists, educators, and other specialist can provide special training, the best thing you can do is include your child in warm and lively family living. Have your child to participate in a loving and active environment that celebrates life, including participation insocial and recreational activities in your community.
Assist your child to develop as much independence and functional skills as possible. It is important to have open and ongoing communication with your child’s teachers and therapists in order to carry over tasks and activities in the home setting.