Definition of Learning Disabilities

Learning disabilities are a group of conditions that affect a person’s ability to learn new things, understand complex information, and communicate effectively.
They are a type of intellectual disability, meaning they affect a person’s cognitive function. People with learning disabilities find it harder to learn, understand, and process information than most others do.
These disabilities are usually present from birth, affecting a person’s development throughout their life. They are lifelong conditions.
Learning disabilities can be categorised into mild, moderate, severe, and profound and multiple. The severity level refers to the extent of a person’s impairment and need for support.
It’s important to note that a learning disability is not the same as a learning difficulty or a mental health condition. People with learning difficulties such as dyslexia and ADHD can learn effectively with the right support, while someone with a learning disability will always need additional support.
Learning disabilities are not caused by socioeconomic factors like income or education, but they can be influenced by hereditary factors, complications during pregnancy and childbirth, illness or injury in early childhood.
Incidents of learning disabilities are sometimes associated with other conditions such as Down’s Syndrome or Fragile X Syndrome.
People with learning disabilities often have a unique way of viewing the world and can contribute to society in many ways given the right support and opportunities.

Assessment of Learning Disabilities

For someone to be diagnosed with a learning disability, their IQ has to be below 70 and they must have significant difficulties with everyday activities such as managing money, cooking meals or travelling alone.
It’s normally diagnosed in childhood, after a child shows delayed milestones or behavioural problems in school.
As part of the diagnosis, a psychological assessment may be carried out. This can involve a series of tasks designed to evaluate the person’s mental capacities and compare them to others of the same age.
The diagnosis should not be based solely on the results of these tests, but also consider the person’s overall ability to function in daily life.
Post diagnosis, a personalized support plan should be created to help the person live their life as fully and independently as possible.