Intellectual disability chooses no age, it can affect anyone. It takes a lot of empathy and understanding for individuals experiencing intellectual disabilities and as the number continues to grow, misconceptions about the disability continue to grow as well. This article will discuss the top 5 common misconceptions about intellectual disability and we will give clarity to each.
MYTH: “Intellectual disability is hereditary”
Intellectual disability is not 100% hereditary, there are some cases wherein it is caused by external factors and is preventable.
MYTH: “Children will intellectual disability should be restricted to cry"
While children with intellectual disabilities are taught and trained to behave just like any other children, it is important to allow them to express their emotions as well and take into consideration their limitations when disciplining them.
MYTH: “Individuals with an intellectual disability can’t live a normal life"
This is not true, as individuals with disabilities can even go to work, choose and finish a degree just like the regular population. With proper access to the right funds, services, and support from family members, it has been proven that individuals with ID are at par with those who don’t have the condition. Services offered by the NDIS allow individuals with ID to be job-ready, how to look for a job that suits them and how to retain it. Other support also comes through therapy intervention, AT, or a support worker to assist academic needs.
MYTH: “Individuals with an intellectual disability can’t live independently”
While this has been the assumption to many, people with ID can definitely live independently. There are NDIS supports and services intended to help individuals with ID achieve this goal by allowing them to access residences that are fit to their needs, can even have funds to pay for a support worker to help them maintain the cleanliness of their home or assist them in doing personal care tasks.
MYTH: “Intellectual disability is a mental health disorder”
ID is not synonymous with a mental health disorder, although it is a fact that many people with ID have dual diagnoses the two terms are definitely not the same. Individuals with ID experience limitations in terms of language, literacy, social skills, problem-solving, and practical skills while mental health disorder does not necessarily impact cognitive skills but can have an impact on the person’s mood, thoughts, and perception of things.
Do you have an NDIS plan and in need of support to help you achieve your NDIS goals? Allow us to help you in the financial management of your funds while you focus on yourself and your goals. Choose to be Plan Managed today and access both NDIS registered and non-registered NDIS service providers.
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