Table AI.

Main characteristics of mild IDD

Persons with mild IDD are noticeably slower in learning to speak than others but usually achieve sufficient language abilities for everyday purposes, to hold conversations, and to engage in the clinical interview. However, such as relating complex experiences and complex discourses are limited. They may only show delays in cognitive and motor milestones

Difficulties are seen distinctly in academic skills and most have difficulties in the age-appropriate skills of comprehending, writing, and reading. The majority manage to acquire primary school education with support

Most achieve bowel and bladder control, and skills needed for independence in basic self-care activities (eating, washing, and dressing), as well as practical and domestic life. However, the development of these skills is considerably lower than the average person. As adults, most live a relatively independent life looking after themselves with appropriate support. They develop a capacity for open employment with initial support as long as it involves simple (unskilled/semi-skilled) tasks

In a socio-cultural context requiring little academic achievement, some degree of mild IDD may not be readily evident. However, activities that place greater demands on cognitive/adaptive abilities such as long-term partnership, child-rearing, fitting in with cultural traditions and expectations, dealing with increased demands on performance, or adaptation to stressors will make their difficulties more noticeable In general the behavioural, emotional, and social difficulties of persons with mild IDD, and the needs for treatment are more closely akin to those found in the general population. Evaluation of co-occurring psychiatric disorders may require some modification of diagnostic approaches to elicit psychopathology

The IQ is usually in the range 50–70