Why include persons with intellectual or developmental disabilities in a discussion of diversity and culture?
A. Healthcare professionals have traditionally not had a great deal of experience with this population. In the past, many people with developmental disabilities died at a relatively early age; with changes in lifestyle and medical treatment, the life expectancy of this population has risen. In addition, people with developmental disabilities are now more visible. Rather than living in institutions, many now live and work in the community. What are some common misconceptions about persons with developmental disabilities? A. We come to understand people by our experiences with them. Without experience, stereotypes tend to lead us. But anyone who has spent time with persons with developmental disabilities comes to realize that the commonalities between people are greater than the differences. They have needs, hopes, and fears just like the rest of us. Ironically, I am finding that as healthy people age, we actually become more like those with developmental disabilities. Older people may f
A. Healthcare professionals have traditionally not had a great deal of experience with this population. In the past, many people with developmental disabilities died at a relatively early age; with changes in lifestyle and medical treatment, the life expectancy of this population has risen. In addition, people with developmental disabilities are now more visible. Rather than living in institutions, many now live and work in the community. What are some common misconceptions about persons with developmental disabilities? A. We come to understand people by our experiences with them. Without experience, stereotypes tend to lead us. But anyone who has spent time with persons with developmental disabilities comes to realize that the commonalities between people are greater than the differences. They have needs, hopes, and fears— just like the rest of us. Ironically, I am finding that as “healthy” people age, we actually become more like those with developmental disabilities. Older people ma
