Disability 101: Cognitive Impairments

Cognitive impairment, sometimes called mental retardation or developmental delay/disability, is a condition often present before birth, in which normal development of the brain does not correspond with physical growth. Over 300 causes of cognitive impairment have been discovered, but many causes are still unknown; we do know that for some people, learning ability develops slower than average. Reasoning and judgment may also develop at a slower pace. For many people with cognitive limitations, it is not that the ability to learn that is missing, but the speed and ease at which things are learned is slower. People with cognitive impairment show an intellectual level that is below average and may have limitations in some of these areas: communication, self-care, home living, social skills, self-direction, health and safety, functional academics, use of leisure, and work. People with cognitive limitations have the same hopes, dreams, and desires as everybody else. Treat a person with cognitive impairment in the way you would treat any person, using age-appropriate language and tone of voice, and always with respect.

For useful information about children and adults with cognitive impairments, refer to Sally Patton's book: Welcoming Children with Special Needs: A Guidebook for Faith Communities, published by the Unitarian Universalist Association, 2004. UUA district offices have copies of this book.

The most comprehensive website for information about ways to welcome people with cognitive impairments into faith communities is hosted by the American Association on Mental Retardation (AAMR) One of their publications is a 170 page listing of resources titled "On the Road to Congregational Inclusion : Dimensions of Faith and Congregational Ministries with Persons with Developmental Disabilities and their Families"

The Arc – National Headquarters has sponsored an annual Mental Retardation Sabbath/Sunday Project since 1979 to help acquaint the general public with the needs of people with mental retardation and their families. Many state Arcs also have staff who organize these annual events, coordinated on one specific Sunday. Contact your local ARC (state and local chapter information is available at the national association's website.

Until you know someone who has mental retardation, you may never have had any need to think about the key points that make relationships easier and more relaxed. With the intent to create a welcoming and relaxed environment for everyone, here are some ground rules we should all keep in mind.

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