Legal Definitions - developmental disability

A developmental disability refers to a severe, chronic condition that originates before an individual reaches adulthood, typically before the age of 22. This condition is caused by a mental or physical impairment, or a combination of both, and is expected to continue indefinitely.

It results in substantial functional limitations in at least three major life activities, such as:

• Self-care (e.g., eating, dressing, hygiene)
• Receptive and expressive language (e.g., understanding and communicating)
• Learning (e.g., acquiring new knowledge and skills)
• Mobility (e.g., moving around independently)
• Self-direction (e.g., making choices, setting goals)
• Capacity for independent living (e.g., managing a household, finances)
• Economic self-sufficiency (e.g., holding a job, earning income)

Individuals with developmental disabilities often require ongoing, individualized support and services throughout their lives.

Here are some examples illustrating the term:

• Example 1: A child named Maya was diagnosed with a severe intellectual disability at a young age, which significantly impacts her ability to learn academic subjects and perform daily tasks independently. She requires specialized educational programs, ongoing therapy, and assistance with personal care and decision-making as she grows up, and these needs are expected to continue throughout her adult life.

  Explanation: This illustrates a developmental disability because Maya's condition originated in childhood, is chronic, and results in substantial limitations in learning, self-care, and self-direction, requiring lifelong support.

• Example 2: David, now 25, was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder when he was five years old. While he is highly intelligent, he struggles with social communication, understanding non-verbal cues, and adapting to changes in routine, which makes it challenging for him to maintain employment without significant job coaching and a highly structured work environment. These challenges have been present since childhood.

  Explanation: David's situation exemplifies a developmental disability because his condition manifested before adulthood, is chronic, and creates substantial limitations in communication, self-direction, and economic self-sufficiency, requiring ongoing support.

• Example 3: Sarah was born with severe cerebral palsy, a physical impairment that affects her motor skills and coordination. From infancy, she has required a wheelchair for mobility, assistance with dressing and bathing, and specialized equipment to navigate her home. Now in her early 30s, she continues to rely on these supports and personal care assistants to live independently.

  Explanation: Sarah's cerebral palsy is a developmental disability because it is a chronic physical impairment that originated at birth, leading to significant, lifelong limitations in mobility and self-care, necessitating continuous support.