What is developmental delay called in adults?: Understanding the Correct Terminology

For many, a developmental delay is thought of as a condition impacting only children. When these issues persist into adulthood, however, they are typically known as a developmental disability, a lifelong condition originating before age 22. Understanding the correct terminology is essential when exploring the question, what is developmental delay called in adults?

Quick Summary

Developmental delays that continue into adulthood are correctly referred to as developmental disabilities, which are lifelong conditions originating before age 22 that affect daily functioning, learning, or communication.

Key Points

• Correct Terminology: In adults, a developmental delay is more accurately referred to as a developmental disability or neurodevelopmental disorder, reflecting its lifelong nature.

• Chronic Condition: Unlike a childhood delay which may be overcome, a developmental disability is a chronic, permanent condition.

• Functional Limitations: Developmental disabilities are defined by significant limitations in major life activities like learning, communication, and independent living.

• Late Diagnosis Possible: Adults can receive a formal diagnosis of a developmental disability, often through clinical assessments and psychological testing.

• Person-First Language: It is respectful and correct to use person-first language, such as "a person with a disability," rather than focusing on the condition itself.

• Diverse Conditions: The term encompasses a wide range of conditions, including intellectual disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and cerebral palsy.

Terminology Shift: From 'Delay' to 'Disability'

While "developmental delay" accurately describes a child's slower-than-average progress in reaching milestones, this term is not used for adults. This is because adulthood signifies that development is largely complete, and any persistent challenges are considered a permanent or chronic condition rather than a temporary delay. The shift in terminology from a temporary "delay" to a permanent "disability" recognizes this distinction. The correct and respectful terms in the adult context are often "developmental disability" or "neurodevelopmental disorder."

What is a Developmental Disability?

A developmental disability is defined as a severe, chronic disability that originates during the developmental period (before age 22) and is likely to continue indefinitely. These conditions result in substantial functional limitations in three or more areas of major life activity, such as self-care, learning, mobility, and the capacity for independent living. The term encompasses a diverse group of mental and/or physical impairments. Key characteristics include:

• Lifelong Nature: Unlike some childhood delays that can be overcome, developmental disabilities are permanent.
• Early Onset: The condition must be present before the individual turns 22.
• Functional Impact: It significantly affects a person's ability to perform daily life activities.

Common Examples of Developmental Disabilities

A wide range of conditions falls under the umbrella of developmental disabilities. Some of the most commonly known include:

• Intellectual Disability (ID): Characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning (reasoning, learning, problem-solving) and adaptive behavior.
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): Affects how a person communicates, processes social situations, and handles sensory information.
• Cerebral Palsy (CP): Impacts movement and coordination due to a non-progressive brain injury or malformation occurring before, during, or after birth.
• Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs): Caused by prenatal alcohol exposure, leading to issues with memory, focus, and emotional regulation.
• Learning Disabilities: Includes conditions like dyslexia and dysgraphia, which can make reading, writing, and math challenging throughout life.
• Epilepsy: A neurological disorder characterized by seizures, which often co-occurs with other developmental disabilities.

Can a Developmental Disability Be Diagnosed in Adulthood?

Yes, a diagnosis can be made during adulthood, especially if the original developmental delays were never properly addressed in childhood. The process involves a comprehensive clinical assessment and psychological testing to evaluate cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior skills. This is particularly important for individuals who were good at "masking" their symptoms or for those whose parents and teachers did not recognize the signs earlier in life. The goal of a late diagnosis is to provide appropriate support and treatment to improve the individual's quality of life.

The Adult Diagnostic Process

The diagnostic pathway for adults often includes:

1. Clinical Interview: A detailed discussion about the individual's developmental history, current symptoms, and functional challenges.
2. Psychological Testing: Standardized tests to assess cognitive abilities, memory, reasoning, and adaptive behaviors.
3. Adaptive Behavior Assessment: Evaluation of daily living skills, such as self-care, communication, and social skills.
4. Differential Diagnosis: Ruling out other conditions that may have similar symptoms, like adult-onset traumatic brain injury or neurodegenerative disease.

Comparison: Childhood Delay vs. Adult Disability

Understanding the distinction is key to providing appropriate care and support.

Feature	Childhood Developmental Delay	Adult Developmental Disability
Timeframe	Child is temporarily behind peers in specific milestones (e.g., speech, motor skills).	Lifelong, chronic condition that began before age 22 and persists indefinitely.
Prognosis	Many children can "catch up" to their peers with early intervention and therapy.	The condition is permanent and does not go away, though individuals can gain new skills.
Focus	On intervention to help the child achieve developmental milestones.	On support, independence, and managing functional limitations throughout life.
Terminology	"Developmental delay."	"Developmental disability" or "Neurodevelopmental disorder."
Source	Can be genetic, environmental, or related to a specific disorder. Sometimes unknown.	Can result from a range of causes, including genetic, neurological, or traumatic.

Resources and Person-First Language

For adults with developmental disabilities, a robust network of resources can offer critical support. This includes social services, therapy, vocational training, and housing assistance. For caregivers and families, understanding the condition and connecting with support groups can make a significant difference. It is also vital to use person-first language, which emphasizes the individual, not the disability. For example, use "a person with an intellectual disability" instead of "an intellectually disabled person."

For more information on the various conditions and the resources available, the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) offers extensive information on the health and care of adults with developmental disabilities: Adults with Developmental Disabilities: A Comprehensive Overview.

Conclusion

In summary, the question of what is developmental delay called in adults? reveals an important distinction in terminology and perspective. While the term "developmental delay" applies to children who may or may not overcome their challenges, a condition that persists into adulthood is classified as a developmental disability. These are lifelong conditions that originate in early life, impacting multiple areas of daily functioning. Understanding and using this accurate, respectful terminology is the first step toward advocating for and supporting adults with these diverse needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a person be diagnosed with a developmental disability for the first time as an adult?

Yes, it is possible for an adult to receive an initial diagnosis for a developmental disability. This may occur if symptoms were not identified or addressed during childhood. The diagnostic process involves thorough assessments of cognitive and adaptive skills to confirm the condition's origin in early development.

Is a learning disability the same as a developmental disability in adults?

No, a learning disability is not synonymous with a developmental disability, though it can be a type of developmental disability. Developmental disability is a broader term encompassing a range of mental or physical impairments, while a learning disability specifically affects how a person learns, reads, or writes.

How is an adult developmental disability different from a mental health condition?

A developmental disability is a lifelong condition that originated in childhood and impacts multiple areas of functioning, such as cognitive or physical skills. In contrast, a mental health condition can develop at any point in life. While they can co-occur, they are distinct types of diagnoses.

What is the most respectful language to use when discussing adults with developmental challenges?

The most respectful approach is to use person-first language. Instead of saying "the disabled," for example, use phrases like "people with disabilities" or "an adult with a developmental disability." This puts the individual before their condition.

Do adults with developmental disabilities need special senior care?

Adults with developmental disabilities may require specialized senior care tailored to their unique needs, in addition to standard aging care. This can include assistance with daily living skills, behavioral support, and managing comorbidities that are common with certain disabilities.

Where can families find resources for adults with developmental disabilities?

Families can find resources through various organizations, including national and state councils on developmental disabilities, local community centers, and health associations like the AAFP. These resources can offer guidance on support services, independent living, and educational programs.

What if a developmental disability is diagnosed for the first time in an older adult?

If a developmental disability is diagnosed later in life, it confirms that the condition has been present since childhood but was not previously identified. While the diagnosis may be late, receiving it can open doors to necessary support, therapeutic interventions, and resources to better manage daily challenges.