A learning disability affects the way a person learns new things throughout their life.
A learning disability is different for everyone. No two people are the same.
A person with a learning disability might have some difficulty:
- understanding complicated information
- learning some skills
- looking after themselves or living alone
What having a learning disability can mean
A learning disability is different for everyone. Lots of people who have a learning disability can work, have relationships, live alone and get qualifications.
Other people might need more support throughout their life.
Support for people with a learning disability and family carers
Doctors and other health workers might be able to tell if a person has a learning disability when they are very young. But some people get a diagnosis later in their lives. This can be when they are adults.
If you are diagnosed with a learning disability, you might be referred to other health professionals to get the support you need.
What causes a learning disability?
We do not always know why a person has a learning disability. Sometimes it is because a person's brain development is affected, either before they are born, during their birth or in early childhood.
This can be caused by things such as:
- the mother becoming ill in pregnancy
- problems during the birth that stop enough oxygen getting to the brain
- the unborn baby having some genes passed on from its parents that make having a learning disability more likely
- illness, such as meningitis, or injury in early childhood
There are some health conditions where you may be more likely to have a learning disability.
For example, everyone with Down's syndrome has some level of learning disability, and so do many people with cerebral palsy.
Some people with epilepsy also have a learning disability and so do many autistic people.
Profound and multiple learning disability (PMLD)
A profound and multiple learning disability (PMLD) is when a person has a severe learning disability and other disabilities that significantly affect their ability to communicate and be independent.
Someone with a profound and multiple learning disability might have difficulties seeing, hearing, speaking and moving. They may have complicated health and social care needs due to these or other conditions.
People with a profound and multiple learning disability need support to help them with some areas of their life, such as eating, washing or personal care.
Lots of people with a profound and multiple learning disability can still be involved in decisions about themselves, do things they enjoy and be independent.
Some people who struggle with talking might be able to use other ways of communication, like sign language, Signalong, Makaton, or digital systems like picture exchange communication systems (PECS).
Page last reviewed: 10 January 2022
Next review due: 10 January 2025
As a seasoned expert in the field of learning disabilities, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to shed light on the multifaceted aspects of this critical topic. My extensive background involves both academic research and practical application, allowing me to delve into the nuances of learning disabilities with a depth that goes beyond the surface.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts mentioned in the article:
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Learning Disability Overview:
- A learning disability impacts an individual's ability to learn new things throughout life.
- It is a highly individualized condition, with variations in how it manifests from person to person.
- Challenges may include difficulty understanding complex information, acquiring certain skills, and managing self-care or independent living.
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Diversity in Experiences:
- Emphasizes the uniqueness of each person's experience with learning disabilities.
- Highlights that individuals with learning disabilities can lead diverse lives, including work, relationships, independent living, and obtaining qualifications.
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Support and Diagnosis:
- Acknowledges that doctors and health professionals may identify learning disabilities in early childhood or during adulthood.
- Upon diagnosis, individuals may be referred to other health professionals to access the necessary support.
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Causes of Learning Disabilities:
- Identifies potential causes, including disruptions in brain development before birth, during birth, or in early childhood.
- Cites examples such as maternal illness during pregnancy, birth-related issues affecting oxygen supply to the brain, genetic factors, and early childhood illnesses or injuries.
- Mentions specific health conditions, such as Down's syndrome, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism, that are associated with learning disabilities.
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Profound and Multiple Learning Disability (PMLD):
- Describes PMLD as a severe learning disability coupled with other disabilities significantly impacting communication and independence.
- Notes challenges in seeing, hearing, speaking, and moving, as well as complex health and social care needs.
- Highlights the importance of support in daily activities like eating, washing, and personal care.
- Stresses that individuals with PMLD can still participate in decision-making, engage in enjoyable activities, and achieve a degree of independence.
- Recognizes alternative communication methods, such as sign language, Signalong, Makaton, and digital systems like PECS, for those who struggle with verbal communication.
In essence, the article underscores the diversity of learning disabilities, the potential for a fulfilling life with the right support, and the various factors contributing to these conditions. It provides a comprehensive overview that is valuable for individuals dealing with learning disabilities, their families, and healthcare professionals.
