Columbia
Montour
Snyder
Union
Counties
of Central Pennsylvania
Service System
Facts About Mental Retardation
Keys
to Understanding Mental Retardation
Is mental retardation the same as mental "illness?"
The fact is:
Mental retardation means that a person develops mentally at a below-average
rate. They may have difficulty in learning and social adjustment, but
they can learn. With the appropriate intervention and education, they
can lead satisfying and productive lives in the community.
Is mental retardation a contagious disease?
The fact is:
Mental retardation is not a disease and it is certainly not contagious.
It is a condition which affects an individual because of some change or
damage with the developing brain and neurological system.
Do individuals with severe and profound mental retardation need to be locked away in an institution for the safety of all concerned?
The fact is:
Systematic training efforts have proven that most people with severe and
profound mental retardation can learn to at least care for their basic
needs. Many can perform useful work with support and can otherwise adapt
to normal patterns of life. It has been proven that the most effective
environment for everyone to learn and develop is one which is in the community
and which offers a family-like atmosphere of care and nurturing.
Will educational and vocational training help people who have mental retardation?
The fact is:
Most people with mental retardation can learn, although at a slower rate,
and are capable of living in the community with little or no support services.
Early intervention is a major emphasis since it is proven that the sooner
a person is diagnosed as having mental retardation and appropriate programming
is started, the more productive and capable the person will be to have
a meaningful life in the community. Vocational programs offer a variety
of services to prepare individuals for work. They may learn a trade or
receive supported employment help to find a job in the competitive work
environment.
Do we know what causes mental retardation and can it be prevented?
The fact is:
Mental retardation can be caused by any condition which impairs development
of the brain before or during birth or in early childhood. More than 250
causes have been discovered, but they account for only about one-fourth
of the causes of mental retardation. The most well-known are: Rubella
or German measles in the pregnant female, meningitis, toxoplasmosis, Rh
factor; and chromosomal abnormalities such as Down Syndrome. Mental retardation
can be prevented in some cases. Some prevention strategies include:
1. Access to good prenatal and postnatal care for mother and child.
2. Improved nutrition in pregnant women and infants.
3. Avoiding the use of drugs and alcohol during pregnancy.
4. Newborn screening and immunizations of mothers to prevent Rh blood
factor.
5. Use of child seats and seat belts to prevent head injuries.
6. Screening for lead poisoning for all children under the age of 5.
People with mental retardation are people first. They have the same needs and desires as everyone else. Treat them as individuals. Recognize their abilities - not their disabilities.
PASS THE WORD!