Focus on Intellectual Disablility – National Disabilities Awareness Month

Intellectual disability is the most common developmental disability. Until Rosa’s Law was signed into law by President Obama in October 2010, The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)  used the term “mental retardation” or “cognitive disability” instead of “intellectual disability.” Rosa’s Law changed the future term to be “intellectual disability.” IDEA is a law ensuring services to children with disabilities throughout the nation.  Intellectual disability is a term used when a person has particular limitations in mental functioning and in skills such as communicating, self-care, and social skills. These limitations cause a child to learn and develop more slowly than a typical child. [Read more...]

National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

                   

In 1987, President Ronald Reagan declared March as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. The proclamation called for people to provide understanding, encouragement and opportunities to help persons with developmental disabilities to lead productive and fulfilling lives. In  August 1988 I started work with the Arizona Long Term Care System to do Medical Eligibility Assessments for the Elderly and Physically disabled individuals as well as those with Developmental Disabilities. [Read more...]