What is it?
Learning disabilities are neurological conditions that affect how people process information, making it difficult to learn and communicate. They can impact skills like reading, writing, and maths but do not reflect a person’s overall intelligence.
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Description
A learning disability is a condition that affects the way a person learns and processes information. It can impact skills such as reading, writing, and understanding, making it more challenging to acquire knowledge and apply it in daily life. Learning disabilities are often present from birth or early childhood and can affect various aspects of learning and development.
Individuals with learning disabilities may struggle with tasks such as following instructions, organising tasks, and communicating effectively. Despite these challenges, many people with learning disabilities can lead fulfilling lives, achieve academic and professional goals, and form meaningful relationships with appropriate support and accommodations.
Types
Learning disabilities are often categorised into levels based on their impact on an individual’s abilities and daily functioning: mild, moderate, severe and profound.
- Mild
A person with a mild learning disability can typically hold conversations and express most of their needs and desires. They may require some assistance with understanding abstract or complex concepts but are generally capable of managing their own self-care and performing many daily tasks independently. They usually possess basic reading and writing skills. Individuals with a mild learning disability are often undiagnosed, but they may still need support with tasks like budgeting and filling out forms.
- Moderate
People with a moderate learning disability typically have some language skills, allowing them to communicate their daily needs and desires. They may need assistance with self-care, but many can manage daily tasks with support.
- Severe
People with a severe learning disability often rely on basic words and gestures to express their needs. They generally require extensive support for everyday activities like cooking, budgeting, cleaning, and shopping, though many can manage some or all of their personal care independently. Some individuals may also have additional medical needs or require help with mobility issues.
- Profound
A profound and multiple learning disability (PMLD) involves a severe learning disability combined with other disabilities that significantly impact a person’s ability to communicate and live independently. Individuals with PMLD may experience difficulties with vision, hearing, speech, and movement, and often have complex health and social care needs related to these or other conditions.
They require support in various aspects of daily life, such as eating, personal hygiene, and self-care. Despite these challenges, many people with PMLD can participate in decisions about their own lives, engage in activities they enjoy, and maintain a degree of independence.
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Causes
Causes
The exact cause of a learning disability is not always clear. It can result from issues with brain development that occur before birth, during delivery, or in early childhood. Contributing factors may include:
- Maternal illness during pregnancy
- Birth complications that restrict oxygen to the brain
- Genetic factors inherited from parents that increase the likelihood of a learning disability
- Illnesses such as meningitis or injuries in early childhood
Certain health conditions are also associated with a higher likelihood of learning disabilities. For instance, individuals with Down’s syndrome typically have some degree of learning disability, as do many people with cerebral palsy. Additionally, some individuals with epilepsy or autism also experience learning disabilities.
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voice
People with learning disabilities deserve to be equally valued and respected. This value and respect will build an inclusive society enriched by diversity, benefitting all citizens.
People with learning disabilities are people first. Sometimes, additional considerations and terms, or ‘labels’, can be helpful as a means to access appropriate care and support.
- Research into mental health problems in people with learning disabilities, NICE
Getting help
How much support someone needs depends on the individual.
For example, someone with a mild learning disability may only need support with things like getting a job. However, someone with a severe or profound learning disability may need fulltime care and support with every aspect of their life – they may also have physical disabilities.
- Getting support for children and young people with a learning disability
It’s common for some children to begin walking or talking later than their peers, and this is usually not a cause for concern. However, if you suspect your child may be developing skills more slowly due to a learning disability, consult a doctor (GP) or your health visitor.
Health, education, and social care services collaborate to assess the support needed and create a tailored plan. This plan is designed to provide support for children from birth through to 25 years old.
- Getting support for adults with a learning disability
As an adult with a learning disability, you may require support. The adult social care department of your local council will work with you to determine your support needs. Your family, carer, or support worker can assist with this process if needed.
This evaluation is known as a needs assessment. For more information on obtaining a needs assessment, visit the NHS website.
If you have a family member, partner, or friend who needs ongoing care or assistance with daily activities, you can also explore information about providing support and managing their care on GOV.UK.
Services to support you
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Some resources that may help
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