Understanding Intellectual Disabilities
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an intellectual disability means a significantly reduced ability to understand new or complex information and to learn and apply new skills (impaired intelligence). This results in a reduced ability to cope independently (impaired social functioning), and begins before adulthood, with a lasting effect on development.
Disability depends not only on a child’s health conditions or impairments but also and crucially on the extent to which environmental factors support the child’s full participation and inclusion in society.
The use of the term intellectual disability in the context of the WHO initiative “Better health, better lives” includes children with autism who have intellectual impairments. It also encompasses children who have been placed in institutions because of perceived disabilities or family rejection and who consequently acquire developmental delays and psychological problems.
To learn more…
The DSM-5 Fact Sheet on Intellectual Disability
Definitions, symptoms, and causes of intellectual disability
Where to go for help and support
Rehabilitation centres:
Rehabilitation centres serve people who have a physical disability, an intellectual disability (ID), a pervasive development disorder (PDD), an addiction problem (alcohol, drugs, gambling) or behavioural, psychosocial or family difficulties. Generally speaking, rehabilitation centres offer adaptation, rehabilitation, social integration and accompaniment, as well as support services for family and friends. Their services may be provided on the centres’ premises, in schools, at work or at home, as need be. In Montréal, there are 14 rehabilitation centres, five of which are private.
Eastern Townships
Intellectual Disabilities and Pervasive Development Disorders Readapation Center Eastern Townships
Montreal
Atelier le Fil d’Ariane inc. (private)
West Island Readaptation Centre (public)
Centre de réadaptation Gabrielle-Major (public)
Centre de réadaptation Lisette-Dupras (public)
Miriam Home and Services (public)
Services de réadaptation l’Intégrale (public)
Resources for Teachers
MEES Education Program for Students with a Profound Intellectual Disability
MEES CASP program for Students with a Moderate to Severe Intellectual Disability
On s’élève! OPHQ Teachers’ Awareness Guide for Students with Disabilities(French only)
Resources for Parents
Handbook for Parents with Children with Special Needs?Quebec Federation of Parents’ Committees
Online Resources — Quebec Government
Régie des rentes Québec – Disability
Santé et Services Sociaux Québec – Personnes handicapées
Aide financières aux études Québec – Loans and Bursaries Program
A guide containing information on the various programs and services offered by government departments and agencies to persons with disabilities. ?The information is organized by category. This guide is available in French Only
Persons with Disabilities – Disability Deduction
Canadian Government
Canadian Government-Human Rights and Disabilities
Technical Advisory Committee on Tax Measures for Persons with Diabilities
Guide to Government of Canada Services for People with Disabilities and their families
Canadian Heritage – Canadian Rights Reporter
Other Services
Financial Support Programs for Children with Disabilities