Mental Retardation

Mental retardation refers to substantial limitations in present functioning. It is characterized by:

1. Significantly sub average intellectual functioning, existing concurrently with:

2. Related limitations in two or more of the following applicable adaptive skill areas:

• Communication
• Self Care
• Home Living
• Social Skills
• Community Use
• Self direction
• Health and Safety
• Functional Academics
• Leisure
• Work

3. Mental retardation manifests before age 18.

In general, an IQ below 70 falls within the range of mental retardation. With appropriate supports over a sustained period, the life functioning of the person with mental retardation will generally improve.

The term "appropriate supports" means an array of services, supportive individuals, and receptive settings that match an individual's needs. It is likely that supports will be needed over an extended period of time, and for many, lifelong supports will be needed. For some, however, certain supports may be intermittent or short term. Most people with mental retardation will improve their functioning with effective supports, allowing them to live more productive, independent, and integrated lives. A lack of improvement in functioning can serve as a basis for re-evaluating the supports. In rare circumstances, supports can serve to merely maintain a level of functioning or slow a regression of level of functioning. (AAMR 1993)