Introduction to Intellectual Disabilities

Intellectual disabilities is a broad category that consists of several disorders, all of which share the characteristic of reduced intelligence and reduced daily functioning. People with intellectual disabilities also have difficulties acquiring skills associated with learning, reasoning, problem-solving and the daily living. These disabilities are generally defined as developing during the course of childhood, that is, before the age of 18 years and tend to differ from one individual to the other. Intellectual disabilities are not evenly distributed in the populations, with estimates of only 1% of the global population being intellectually disabled. This proves the need for education, understanding, and proper intervention, more so in cases such as the Special Olympics Bharat where athletes battle with mental instead of physical challenges.

The vocabulary related to ID is rather broad and includes terms referring to various genetic anomalies and environmental causative agents, such as Down and Fragile X syndromes, as well as malnutrition, toxic agents, and infections in the womb. Birth or infant traumatic factors may also contribute to the development of some intellectual disabilities. For this reason, individuals are encouraged to undergo assessments and recommended interventions towards the management of intellectual and developmental disabilities at an early stage. Indeed, a number of educational and therapeutic measures will enable them to acquire abilities that promote autonomy and improve their quality of life.

Prejudice and false beliefs towards intellectual disability have dire consequences and lead to social exclusion and discrimination. It is therefore important to promote and encourage inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities in education, employment and social activities in the same manner as the general population. Supportive interventions at the educational level, development and implementation of political agendas, and community education work towards breaking down barriers to the inclusion of people with intellectual disabilities. Inclusion of all and promotion of diversity is a way of pursuing justice for all the member of the society, particularly to those who don’t consider themselves inferior among those who participate in Special Olympics Bharat.