Learning Disabilities
Many of us take learning for granted. From birth we are constantly discovering new skills and developing a better understanding of the world we live in. For those with learning problems such as Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Asperger Syndrome, Down's Syndrome, ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) and ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder), however, this process isn't so easy. A learning disability affects both someone's mental development and the way they communicate with others, and can turn some everyday tasks into a stressful experience.
Here you'll find some general advice on caring for someone with a learning disability, which aims to make the challenges faced by carers that little bit easier (or at the very least point you in the direction of an organisation or group that can).
For more specialised information and support relating to the specific learning disabilities relevant to you, be sure to look through the related resources and articles on this page.
Can't find what you're looking for? Why not post a message on one of our discussion boards or join our online chat room where you can meet, and possibly pick up tips and advice from, experienced carers in similar situations to yours...
Advice for carers
Emotional and behavioural difficulties are common in individuals who have a learning disability for a variety of biological, psychological and social reasons, and these associated symptoms can make the life of the carer even more trying. However, making the most of all the available support professionals from health, education and social services as well as the private and voluntary sector can both give the person with the learning disability the best chance of leading a normal life, as well as making the life of the carer more manageable.
Resources for getting help caring for someone with a learning disability include your local carers centres, GP, local authority, children's services or adult disability services or local charities.
Wherever you seek support, to help get a clear picture of the problem and best help you to help the one you are caring for, one thing you can do is note down the date and details of any specific incidents relating to the learning disability over a period of time. This 'diary' monitoring the frequency and severity of incidents can help you to see how successful any treatments undertaken are.
When seeing a doctor, it's vitally important that you leave having had all your questions answered in a way that you understand, so if there's anything relating to the diagnosis, potential treatments or anything else that you are unsure of, don't be shy to ask and, if necessary, ask again. They are there to help.
Other questions you might think about asking include whether there are any changes you can make at home to make things easier, any contact details for other organisations that can help, if there is any additional literature available and who your service worker is for any guidance and advice you require.
Finally, don't forget to arrange another visit if necessary, and in the meantime note down any changes in symptoms, the side-effects of any medicine taken, any changes in mental or emotional health.
