Mental Retardation FAQs

Common Questions about Mental Disabilities

At QRHC Inc., we understand that living and managing mental disability can be challenging, and family members of someone with this condition often have concerns about their loved one’s health and well-being. That is why we have compiled, answered, and shared the most common questions about mental disabilities in Santa Clara County, CA, and beyond. If these FAQs do not answer one of your concerns, do not hesitate to contact us with your inquiries.

What Is Mental Retardation?

This outdated umbrella term covers multiple mild to major learning, emotional development, and intellectual growth complications that a child or adult can suffer from. Families with a member who has a mental disability can find themselves facing hurdles and obstacles in helping their loved one overcome everyday tasks. 

Smiling Nurse Helping Senior Lady to Walk Around the Nursing Home

How Common Are Mental Disabilities?

Mental handicaps affect thousands of Americans. Depending on the specific cause of the mental disability, such as cerebral palsy or autism, the numbers may vary. Many people are dealing with the same struggles as your family, and we can help. You and your loved ones are not alone.  

What Causes These Disabilities?

Lack of oxygen in the womb or during the labor process, medical conditions, traumatic brain injuries, abnormal genes, genetics, premature births, and family history can all cause mental disabilities and handicaps. A medical professional can help determine the exact cause of the specific condition that your family member is facing and may be able to provide more insight. 

How Did My Loved One Develop a Mental Disability?

The development of mental disability each person may suffer from varies. Some of the most common mental handicaps are a result of genetics or an accident, such as how a genetic mutation causes Down syndrome or Cerebral palsy occurring during birth. Meanwhile, serious car accidents or slip-and-fall cases can result in brain damage. 

Young Carer Supporting Senior Disabled Woman With Walking Stick.

How Can I Tell If My Loved One Is Mentally Disabled? 

Mental disabilities encompass a broad spectrum of developmental and intellectual conditions. When assessing handicaps, it is important to first speak with a medical professional. Some symptoms may include speech disabilities and complications with movement. Other cases may also exhibit delayed motor skills and movement. 

Impaired Senior Man in Wheelchair

How Can Mental or Developmental Delays Be Treated?

There are some treatments available for mental disabilities. A medical professional can help determine which may be the best for your loved one’s specific needs. Medicine, rehabilitation, and treatment of the patient, as well as educating their family, can all boost the quality of life of someone with mental disabilities. 

How Can These Conditions Be Managed?

When managing mental conditions, most families will need to ensure that they understand the disability as much as possible. Support from family members and doctors can greatly increase a person’s quality of life. In-home care and support services like the ones QRHC Inc. provides during school, after school, or through senior activities also help.  

How Do I Get the Help That My Loved One Needs?

If you are looking for additional help caring for your loved one with a mental disability, it is important that you contact a reputable in-home care service provider like QRHC Inc. for your family member.