Treatments For Intellectual Disability

Over time, many names have been used to describe intellectual disability. This is a neurodevelopmental disorder that manifests itself with below-average cognitive functioning. It also affects other areas, such as sociability and the ability to function in an environment.

There are different levels of intellectual disability. For this reason, its real impact on one’s life is determined by the difficulties in performing basic adaptation skills (Spanish link), such as reading, writing, organizing, interacting with others and taking care of oneself on a daily basis.

How professionals measure someone’s intellectual capacity

Abnormalities below the mean (IQ of 100) indicate an intellectual disability. Intellectual ability is generally measured through standardized tests, such as the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children Fifth Edition (WISC-V).

These tests generate a score that indicates a person’s IQ. In other words, the ratio between mental age and chronological (physical) age.

Experts estimate the population mean to be about 100, meaning that two standard deviations below the mean (IQ below 70) indicate intellectual disability.

Although intellectual disability is present from birth or early childhood, many children do not show obvious symptoms until preschool age. In this regard , prenatal and developmental screening tests routinely performed by pediatricians help ensure early diagnosis.

Related Symptoms

Other symptoms besides IQ characterize intellectual disability. Below are some signs that may indicate improper development of the child:

• First, difficulties in reaching major development milestones. For example, the child may take longer than others to sit up, crawl or walk.

• Delays in language acquisition and verbal expression.
• Third, memory problems
• Inability to see the consequences of their actions.
• Learning, thinking logically and solving problems.
• Difficulty understanding social rules and interacting with others.
• Finally, inability to function completely independently on a daily basis.

Main causes

Although intellectual disability has many possible causes, the exact cause of this condition is only found in about 25% of cases. The main factors include chromosomal abnormalities (eg Down syndrome) and hereditary disorders.

Problems during pregnancy, such as preeclampsia or the mother’s use of alcohol or drugs, can also cause it. Similarly, infections, maternal or child malnutrition, severe head injury, or severe emotional neglect of the baby can increase the risk.

Levels of Intellectual Disability

As we mentioned above, this condition can manifest on different levels. Experts have identified four levels of intellectual disability, depending on the individual’s IQ and autonomy.

Mild

Most people with intellectual disabilities are in this range. Their IQ scores are between 50 and 70. Although their cognitive and learning abilities are somewhat limited, they usually manage to adapt to the education system.

They can also often perform a professional activity. Most have the right social skills and only need occasional help to function in their environment.

Moderate

With an IQ between 35 and 50, these people have greater cognitive difficulties, especially when it comes to processing complex concepts. They can train their skills and do supervised low-skilled jobs.

In the same way, they are able to form social relationships even though their communication skills are limited. They can even travel alone to familiar places, but may need help in social situations.

Seriously

With an IQ between 20 and 35, people with severe intellectual disabilities often need constant supervision and support. Their language acquisition is delayed and limited.

They can learn to read certain words and understand simple social communication. In addition, these people can perform simple tasks with help and vigilance. However, they are not very independent.

drastic

A profound intellectual disability accounts for only 1-2% of cases. These people usually have severe cognitive, social and practical problems and other related disabilities. However, they can have relationships with people they know and go about their daily lives as long as they get a lot of support.

Available treatments

Treatment of people with intellectual disabilities is usually based on helping the affected person achieve their full educational, social and practical potential.

A multidisciplinary team of different professionals (Spanish link), including doctors, psychologists, speech therapists and occupational therapists, puts together an individual program. It is based on both strengths and weaknesses and meets the needs of both the patient and his family.

How to reduce the risk of an intellectual disability

Prevention should begin before pregnancy with adequate prenatal care, including folic acid intake and appropriate vaccination. Pregnant women should avoid malnutrition, alcohol and tobacco use, and exposure to toxins in their environment.

In addition, good medical care during childbirth helps to reduce the risk of complications. After birth, the baby must be well cared for, which means that its physical and emotional needs must be met. However, you should know that it is not possible to eliminate the risk.

The importance of family and professional guidance

An intellectual disability is a disability, not because of someone’s low IQ, but because of a lack of support. For this reason, drugs, therapies or curricular adjustments are important to help the patient develop and enjoy a better quality of life (Spanish link).

Family support is also essential so that these people can relate to their environment in an appropriate way. It is important to provide them with practical and functional tools that help them reach their full potential and that their families support them in the best possible way.