The month of March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. According to the National Disability Institute, it was established in an effort to increase public awareness of the needs and the potential of Americans with developmental disabilities and to provide the encouragement and opportunities they need to lead productive lives.
It has taken centuries for individuals with developmental disabilities to be properly recognized. Prior to the 19th century, people with developmental disabilities were treated poorly and subjected to live in unhygienic conditions. Social reformers like Dorothy Dix became instrumental in advocating for the rights people with disabilities. In 1876, the American Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities was established. Many years later in 1987, President Reagan proclaimed the month of March as National Disability Awareness Month.
According to the CDC, developmental disabilities are a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas. These conditions begin during the developmental period and usually span the duration of a person’s lifetime.
These disabilities include but are not limited to:
- Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Cerebral Palsy
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder
- Hearing Loss
- Vision Impairment
Over six million Americans are living with developmental disabilities. Do you or someone you know currently live with a developmental disability and need assistance around the home? Contact Quality of Life Home Care & Hospice to see how we may be of assistance.
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