developmentally disabled

Developmentally disabled refers to a group of conditions that affect a person's brain development, influencing skills like learning, communication, social interaction, and daily functioning. These disabilities typically appear early in life and can vary widely in severity. Examples include intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and cerebral palsy. People with developmental disabilities may require different levels of support throughout their lives, but they can often lead meaningful, productive lives with appropriate services and accommodations. The term emphasizes that these are lifelong conditions affecting development, not a result of illness or injury.