Intellectual Disability Disorder (IDD)

This condition was previously known as Mental Retardation. IDD is present when there is a below average intelligence or mental capacity. Those who may suffer this condition lack skills considered necessary for daily living and may learn these more slowly than others.

There are generally two areas affected: intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors. While most people score on the IQ between 85 to 115, people who are intellectually disabled score less than 70 to 75 which affects 1% of the population.

Causes of IDD can include problem during pregnancy or childbirth, illness such as meningitis, injuries such as head trauma, genetic conditions, and other causes which may remain mysterious.

Signs of IDD can include late development of skills such as rolling over, sitting up, walking, talking, dressing, feeding, and toileting. Difficulties with behavior, problem solving, and learning action/consequence relationships may also be present. Those with Severe IDD may also suffer from seizures, mood disorders, sensory problems, and problems with movement.

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Borderline Intellectual Functioning is a category of diagnosis where the intellectual functioning might be at an almost normal level. It is very difficult to distinguish as there are subtle limitations and frequently misdiagnosed as ADHD Inattentive Type or as a Learning Disorder.

Proper diagnosis is very relevant as it will help us choose the appropriate intervention options and have the right set of accommodations at school. The diagnosis relies on Neuropsychological Testing which will also inform us about the most appropriate interventions that will fit the patient’s needs.