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Intellectual disability, a complex and multifaceted condition, encompasses a range of cognitive impairments that significantly impact an individual's intellectual functioning and adaptive behaviors. Typically manifesting before the age of 18, intellectual disability is characterized by limitations in areas such as reasoning, problem-solving, and conceptual understanding, affecting a person's ability to learn and apply information in daily life. The severity of intellectual disability varies widely, categorized into mild, moderate, severe, or profound levels, each influencing an individual's independence, social interactions, and communication skills differently. Rooted in a diverse array of causes, including genetic factors, prenatal exposure to toxins, complications during childbirth, and postnatal infections, intellectual disability is not solely defined by low intelligence quotient (IQ) scores but is better understood as a spectrum of cognitive challenges. Individuals with intellectual disabilities often face barriers to education, employment, and social inclusion, necessitating tailored support and intervention strategies. The impact of intellectual disability extends beyond the individual, affecting families, communities, and societies as they grapple with the ethical, social, and economic implications of providing care and accommodation for those affected. Despite advances in inclusive education and advocacy for the rights of individuals with intellectual disabilities, stigma and misconceptions persist, highlighting the ongoing need for awareness, acceptance, and a comprehensive, person-centered approach to foster the well-being and potential of every individual living with intellectual disability.
