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Definition of a Developmental Disability
A developmental disability is distinguished from other disabling
conditions in that it must occur, by definition in Arizona,
before the affected person reaches the age of eighteen (18)
years. It must be expected to continue indefinitely, and be
so serious as to have a severe impact upon the ability of
the affected person to function independently in society.
Developmental disabilities by definition in Arizona, result
from retardation, autism, cerebral palsy, or epilepsy.
Arizona law emphasizes that the disabilities affect major
life areas of the person: self-care, receptive and expressive
language, learning, mobility, self-direction, capacity for
independent living, or economic self sufficiency. Although
the federal law does not define specific disabling conditions,
persons with mental retardation or autism are generally developmentally
disabled. Persons diagnosed as having moderate or severe cerebral
palsy may also be considered developmentally disabled. In
addition, the 10- 15 percent of those persons with epilepsy
who experience uncontrolled seizures also fit the definition
of developmentally disabled. In Arizona, only persons with
these four conditions are considered eligible for services
for persons with developmental disabilities. Persons with
developmental disabilities may experience one or more of these
conditions.
NOTE: The above terms are
utilized for the purpose of determining service eligibility
as related to specific diagnoses. Chandler-Gilbert Arc uses
the term "developmentally disabled" when referring
to persons with mental retardation. These terms may be viewed
as "labels", therefore it is recommended that the
use of specific diagnoses be treated as strictly confidential
information and only used when necessary.
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