About Disabilities
A developmental disability is a life-long condition characterized by an intellectual and/or physical impairment that occurs before adulthood that significantly limits major life areas and likely results in the need for personalized support and services.
Developmental disabilities can occur before birth due to genetic disorders and other causes. Some occur during or soon after birth, including those related to metabolic conditions, while others occur when a child is older; an example is a serious head injury.
Developmental disabilities are not physical traits, like hair or eye color. They are not contagious, like the flu or a common cold, and they do not require hospitalization or segregation from the community.
Formal definitions of developmental disabilities are available at:
©2010 Melwood