Adults and Children with Developmental Disabilities

Developmental Disabilities, sometimes referred to as "D-D"are mental or physical problems that people develop during their childhood years and that carry into adulthood such as cerebral palsy, mental retardation and autism. In order for a condition to be called a disability, it must affect the person's ability to take care of themselves, to communicate, to learn, to earn a living, and/or to perform other daily activities. These problems stay with a person for his or her whole life, but with treatment and supports, many people can lead satisfying and active lives.


"Developmental Disability," according to the Michigan Mental Health is: either of the following:

(a) If applied to an individual older than 5 years, a severe, chronic condition that meets all of the following requirements: (i) Is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or a combination of mental and physical impairments.

(ii) Is manifested before the individual is 22 years old.

(iii) Is likely to continue indefinitely.

(iv) Results in substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activities:
(A) Self-care.
(B) Receptive and expressive language.
(C) Learning.
(D) Mobility.
(E) Self-direction.
(F) Capacity for independent living.
(G) Economic self-sufficiency.

(v) Reflects the individual's need for a combination of sequence of special, interdisciplinary, or generic care, treatment, or other services that are of lifelong or extended duration and are individually planned and coordinated.

(b) If applied to a minor from birth to age 5, a substantial developmental delay or a specific congenital or acquired condition with a high probability of resulting in development disability as defined in subdivision (a) if services are not provided.

Examples of Developmental Disabilities include: Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation.