What is I/DD?
I/DD is the term used to describe a wide range of intellectual and developmental disabilities. Understanding what it means — and what it doesn’t — is the first step toward a more inclusive community.
Every person is unique, with their own strengths, interests, and dreams. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are no different. At The Arc Pikes Peak Region, we believe everyone deserves the chance to live, learn, work, and belong in their community.
“I/DD” is an umbrella term that covers many different disabilities. Below, we break down some of the terms you may hear so you can better understand what an intellectual disability is and how it is identified.
What Is an Intellectual Disability?
An intellectual disability occurs before the age of 18. Individuals with intellectual disabilities experience limitations in two main areas: intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. These limitations can affect a person’s everyday activities as well as their social and conceptual skills.
Many people with intellectual disabilities are only mildly affected, which can make the disability hard to notice through visual cues alone. An intellectual disability is diagnosed through standardized tests of intelligence and adaptive behavior.
How Is Intelligence Defined?
Intelligence refers to general mental capability — the ability to reason, plan, solve problems, think abstractly and critically, comprehend complex ideas, learn rapidly, and learn from experience.
It is represented by an Intelligence Quotient (IQ) score obtained from standardized tests given by trained professionals. An intellectual disability is believed to be present if an individual has an IQ score of 70 or below.
What Is Adaptive Behavior?
Adaptive behavior means the behaviors and related skills people need to live independently and function safely in daily life.
These skills include, but are not limited to: grooming, dressing, behaving safely in the home and community, following rules, managing money, making friends, and taking responsibility for one’s actions.
With support from family, friends, and agencies including The Arc, over time many adults with intellectual disabilities can live independent, dynamic lives in their community.
We’re Here to Help
The Arc Pikes Peak Region offers free advocacy, guardianship, education, and social programs for individuals with I/DD and their families. Explore our programs or reach out to learn more.