What are Intellectual Disabilities?
Intellectual disabilities, also called mental retardation, are problems with the processing of the brain that results in a significantly reduced intellectual capacity. Without full intellectual processing, a person may be unable to take care of himself or herself, let alone work and earn the wages necessary to provide basic living needs. Thus, a mental handicap can result in the need for disability payments.
Cognitive disabilities typically manifest before age 22. This means that a person with mental retardation may never have the capacity to learn how to communicate or perform work-related tasks. If you or someone you love suffers from intellectual disabilities, you deserve disability benefits to help with basic needs. Contact a caring Indiana long-term disability lawyer from the Charles D. Hankey Law Office, P.C., today at 800-520-3633 to discuss your case.
Mental Retardation as a Disability
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, intellectual disabilities are the most common form of developmental disorders. Because mental retardation generally applies to congenital problems with the brain, these disorders are present from birth but may not become apparent until up to age 22. This includes problems like autism and fetal alcohol syndrome. To count as a long-term disability, the cognitive disabilities must result in one of the following:
- IQ of 59 or less
- IQ of 60-70 as well as other physical or mental impairments
- IQ of 60-70 in addition to difficulties in work-related skills like concentration and social functioning
- Complete inability to take care of oneself and follow directions
Sometimes, people with mental disabilities may be able to perform minimal work-related tasks. However, these tasks may not offer the pay that someone needs to take care of living expenses. This is where disability benefits can help.
Contact Us
If you have a mental disorder that contributes to a cognitive disability, long-term disability insurance may be able to help you with financial support that you need. To help you prove your case, contact an experienced Indiana long-term disability attorney from the Charles D. Hankey Law Office, P.C., at 800-520-3633.
