Intellectual Disability occurs in the developmental period of life (before age 18) and is characterised by significant limitation both in intellectual functioning and in adaptive behaviors.
Intellectual Disability can affect a person in the following ways:
it may take longer to learn things
it may affect how a person communicates
it may affect how a person socialises
difficulty reading and writing
difficulty understanding abstract concepts, problem solving or decision making
difficulty adapting to unfamiliar situations
How can disability service providers support individuals and families?
There are a range of disability organisations available that support people with a disability to reach their own individual goals and aspirations for life. Whether that may be finding a job, or engaging in social activities, disability organisations can support you to discover what is possible for your life.
Disability organisations may provide support in the following areas:
provision of accommodation
support to live independently
development of life skills
recreation and leisure opportunities
support to study and learn
employment opportunities
support to access the community
respite services
behaviour support
This info sheet was kindly provided by Life Stream Australia
Life Stream Australia Provides services in South East Queensland - visit them at www.lifestream.org.au