Learning disability

Question 1

What is the definition of learning disability?

Answer 1

Below-average general intellectual functioning which originated during developmental period.

And is associated with impairment in adaptive behaviour.

Question 2

What is adaptive behaviour?

Answer 2

Skills that people learn in order to function in daily life.

Conceptual, social and practical skills

Question 3

What are conceptual skills?

Answer 3

Literacy, self-direction, numbers, money and time

Question 4

Name the subtypes of learning disability? And how are patients classified?

Answer 4

Classified by IQ

Mild (50-70)
Moderate (35-49)
Severe (20-34)
Profound (<20)

Question 5

Which is the most common sub-type of learning disability?

Answer 5

Mild

Question 6

Describe how a mild learning disability might affect a patient.

Answer 6

Most can lead an independent life.

Often picked up in school when they are struggling to keep up with peers.

Might need some support finding a job etc.

Question 7

Describe how a moderate learning disability might affect a patient.

Answer 7

Speech and language delay. But will probably be able to communicate.

Difficulty acquiring literacy and numeracy skills.

Low self-esteem, poor social skills

Question 8

Describe how a severe learning disability might affect a patient.

Answer 8

Significant impairment in cognitive and intellectual skills.

Problems with mobility, co-ordination, communication, social skills

Question 9

Describe how a profound learning disability might affect a patient.

Answer 9

Require a high level of support. Might also have physical disabilities and sensory impairment.

Probably unable to talk.

Question 10

People with learning disabilities are more likely to suffer from mental health problems.

True or false?

Answer 10

True

Question 11

Aside from learning disability, what else do patients commonly suffer with?

Answer 11

Physical disability
Sensory impairment
Mental health

Physical illnesses like epilepsy

Question 12

Causes of learning disabilities.

Answer 12

Chromosomal abnormalities: Down’s, fragile X syndrome

Antenatal causes: infections, alcohol, hypoxia, nutritional deficiency

Peri-natal causes: cerebral palsy

Post-natal: injury, infections

Question 13

Ways to help a person with learning disability?

Answer 13

Regular assessments of attainment

Advice and help for families

Arrange extra support: special needs school, occupational therapy

Housing and social support

Keep an eye on their mental health

Question 14

What two things needs to be considered when treating a person with learning difficulties for a psych problem with medication?

Answer 14

These patients might not be able to draw attention to any side effects as well.

Anti-psychotics can lower seizure threshold (many of these patients are more prone to seizures)