An intellectual disability is a condition characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. These limitations affect many everyday social and practical skills. Intellectual functioning—also known as intelligence—refers to general mental capacity, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving, and other cognitive processes. Adaptive behavior includes a range of practical, social, and conceptual skills needed for daily living.
Intellectual disabilities can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetic conditions, problems during pregnancy, birth complications, and health issues that occur during childhood. Some common causes include:
Genetic Conditions: Such as Down syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and Trisomy 13.
Problems During Pregnancy: Infections, malnutrition, and exposure to harmful substances.
Birth Complications: Oxygen deprivation, low birth weight, and premature birth.
Childhood Illnesses and Injuries: Severe head injury, infections, and exposure to toxic substances.
The signs and symptoms of intellectual disabilities vary widely, but common indicators include:
Diagnosis typically involves a thorough evaluation by healthcare professionals, including developmental assessments and cognitive tests. Support for individuals with intellectual disabilities focuses on enhancing their quality of life through personalized care plans, educational programs, therapeutic interventions, and community integration.
July is World Disability Pride Month, a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements, contributions, and rights of people with disabilities. This month promotes awareness, acceptance, and inclusion, encouraging society to recognize and respect the diverse experiences of individuals with disabilities.
Disability Pride Month traces its roots back to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signed into law on July 26, 1990. The ADA marked a significant milestone in the fight for disability rights, prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life.
Disability Pride Month is celebrated through various events, including parades, workshops, and community activities. These events aim to:
The Disability Pride flag is a powerful symbol of pride, solidarity, and the vibrant diversity within the disability community. Here’s an in-depth look at its elements and the colours representing different disabilities:
Types of Disabilities Accepted at Sunfield Home Howick
At Sunfield Home Howick, we provide care for a wide range of intellectual disabilities in adults. Here are the types of disabilities we accept:
Severe intellectual disability and health issues. Read our article here
Mild to moderate intellectual disability
Strong verbal abilities and sociable personality
Developmental delays and intellectual disability.
Inherited intellectual disability.
Intellectual disability and health concerns
Intellectual disability and developmental delays
Intellectual disability, behavioral challenges, and constant hunger
Physical disability with potential intellectual impact
Cognitive and functional limitations
How Sunfield Home Howick Helps
Access to healthcare professionals and specialized care
Occupational therapy
Fostering learning and development through structured activities
Opportunities for socialization, skill development, and personal growth.
Regular updates and communication with family
Helping residents develop essential skills for daily living and independence
“She has become far more independent and now views Sunfield as home, she is also ably assisted with those things she finds challenging, like washing her hair and cutting her nails. I could not wish for her to be taken greater care of!”
Read more on the blog post from Jeni’s mom here.
“Charlie has finally found his “HOME” and looks forward to returning after weekends and holidays.”
Read more on the blog post from Charles’s mom here.
“Nicky Coetzee, our sister, has been in the care of Sunfield Home for 40 years. She is a delightful sister who is always happy and cheerful. My brother Chris and I live overseas. Chris in Chicago, and myself in Abu Dhabi. It brings us great comfort to know that she is well cared for in our absence.”
Read more on the blog post from Nicky’s siblings here.
Family, friends, laughter, chats, food, games, pets, sport, work…..HOME! This is how Carol Mileham describes living at Sunfield Home Howick. Carol has been a resident at Sunfield Home Howick for almost 44 years, joining the Sunfield Family at the age of 13 years of age! Read more about Carol’s story here.
At Sunfield Home Howick, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care, ensuring that every resident thrives and achieves their fullest potential. Choosing the right care facility for a loved one with an intellectual disability is a significant decision. We are dedicated to offering compassionate and comprehensive care that empowers individuals to live fulfilling lives. For more information or to schedule a visit, please give us a call at 033 330 2094 or email gm@sunfield.co.za
Have any questions? Call or email our General Manager, Don Tully.