frequently asked questions

What is a Developmental Disability?
What's wrong with the word "retarded"?
Why have the institutions closed?
Don't people with developmental disabilities need medical care?
Are people really able to participate in community?
How can I make a difference?

Special thanks to the B.C. Association for Community Living for providing the following definitions.

What is a Developmental Disability?

A developmental disability is a life-long condition where people grow and develop more slowly than others. Individuals may have difficulty understanding abstract concepts or adapting to some of the demands of daily life. This disability varies greatly between individuals and may or may not be accompanied by other physical conditions.

Historically, people with developmental disabilities have been segregated from mainstream society. The result is that many of us have never met a person with this disability, but we've been deeply influenced by a variety of myths and stereotypes regarding their capabilities.

Today, individuals who were once separated from community are meeting new neighbours, co-workers, school-mates and friends - perhaps one of them is you.

What's wrong with the word "retarded"?

Unfortunately, the stigma associated with terms like "mentally retarded" is so negative it can stop us from seeing the person hidden behind the label or from recognizing an individual's unique talents and abilities.

Why have the institutions closed?

Everyone has the right to live in the community. And everyone has the potential to learn. Institutions cannot even begin to tap that potential. Over the past two decades we have learned that new opportunities foster new abilities and no one needs to be separated from family and community because of a disability.

Don't people with developmental disabilities need medical care?
A developmental disability is not an illness. Some people may need extra or specialized care, but most people are able to live in community with few additional supports.

Are people really able to participate in community?

The abilities of individuals with developmental disabilities vary greatly. Most are able to carry on a conversation, engage in social activities, work, and participate in life like we all do. Others with more severe disabilities may participate in different ways, but like all of us enjoy the company of others and the opportunity to participate in whatever way they can.

How can I make a difference?

You can show your support simply by being willing to accept and include people as part of the community. If you meet someone who looks a little different, or who has difficulty speaking or walking, offer them the same respect you would give anyone else ... a smile, a handshake, a moment of conversation.