1.3 - Intellectual Disability

Intellectual Disability

Intellectual disability is a developmental disorder. People with intellectual disability have significantly more difficulty than others in understanding concepts, solving problems, concentrating, remembering and learning new things. Consequently, they require extra support to learn and achieve their full potential for independence.

People with intellectual disability are people first. They have the same rights and responsibilities as other members of the community and if given the opportunity have similar dreams, hopes, aspirations, needs and interests as people without disability.

The international definition for intellectual disability has three criteria:

• Significant limitations in intelligence—that is an intelligence quotient (IQ) of about 70 or less as measured on a standardised intellectual assessment.
• Significant limitations in the skills needed to live and work in the community including difficulties with communication, self-care, social skills, safety and self-direction.
• Limitations in intelligence and living skills that are evident before the person is 18 years old.
  

All three criteria must be present for a person to be considered as having intellectual disability.

A formal assessment by a psychologist or other appropriately qualified professional is generally required to diagnose intellectual disability. This assessment usually involves an intellectual assessment (IQ test).

In order to access Disability Services Queensland services for people with intellectual disability, a formal assessment of the person’s living skills will also be required. This is usually assessed by asking a parent, teacher or someone else who knows the referred person well to fill out a questionnaire or participate in an interview.  A psychological assessment may not be necessary if the person has been diagnosed with a syndrome that in most cases results in intellectual disability (eg Down syndrome or William syndrome).

For some people, intellectual disability occurs alongside other disabilities eg sensory impairment, physical impairment and/or medical conditions. Some people may have dual disability, that is, intellectual disability and mental illness.

These other disabilities and conditions are not a result of intellectual disability nor are they caused by intellectual disability. They are added issues to be considered when supporting a person with intellectual disability.

Reference

For further information see below

Disability Services Queensland

Issues for the Advocate in relation to' capacity'

If there is any doubt as to the client's "capacity" and issues around soundness of mind and fitness for trial, then a determination of the clients "capacity" needs to be determined.

A funding application made to Legal Aid Queensland (working in conjunction with lawyer) for a psychiatric report is required and must be accompanied by a GP records, school records and any other medical or health report that is available to substantiate the fact of the intellectual disability.