Mental Retardation FAQs

Mental Retardation and Care Services FAQs

Santa Clara Respite Care

Intellectual disabilities and development delays plague thousands of Americans. Mental retardation is term that has been widely used to paint a broad brushstroke across a variety of complications that can affect children and adults alike. Any disability that causes development conditions to exist, such as autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, or even traumatic brain injury-related mental complications can cause and individual to be classified as mentally disabled.

Mental retardation is a term that is not commonly used anymore, and many different disabilities can fall under the umbrella term of "retardation." These conditions can range from mild to major, and the exact disabilities that may affect the individual can vary; however, family members can still find themselves facing hurdles and obstacles in overcoming everyday tasks. At Quality Respite and Home Care, Inc., we understand that this may be difficult for guardians and caregivers, so we offer our trusted respite and senior services to mentally challenged individuals and their families.

Answers to Questions Regarding Mental Disabilities

At Quality Respite and Home Care, Inc., we understand that any disability can be challenging, and family members often have questions or concerns about their loved one's health and well-being. For years, we have proudly provided quality respite and in-home care to mentally or intellectually challenged individuals and we have been able to improve the quality of life for families throughout Santa Clara and Alameda County. In this section, we encourage you to look through some of the most commonly asked questions regarding mental retardation and disabilities. If you still have questions, do not hesitate to contact Quality Respite and Home Care, Inc. today.

What is mental retardation?
The term "mental retardation" actually covers multiple complications that an individual can suffer from that affect learning and emotional development or intellectual growth. Numerous conditions can cause these disabilities, including genetic factors, major accidents, fetal alcohol syndrome, and family history of mental complications. Birth injuries have also been known to cause mental disabilities.

How common is mental retardation?
Mental handicaps affect thousands of Americans. Depending on the specific cause of the mental disability, such as cerebral palsy or autism, the numbers may vary. It is important to know, however, that you and your loved one are not alone. Many people are dealing with the same struggles as your family, and we can help.

What causes these disabilities?
Lack of oxygen in the womb or during the labor process, medical conditions, serious traumatic brain injuries, abnormal genes, genetics, premature births, and family history can all cause mental disabilities and handicaps. A medical professional can help determine the exact cause of the specific condition that your family member is facing and may be able to provide more insight.

How did my loved one develop a mental disability?
The disability that each person may suffer from varies; however, some of the most common mental handicaps are a result of genetics or an accident. Down syndrome is caused by a genetic mutation. Cerebral palsy may have occurred during birth. Some serious car accidents or slip and fall cases can result in brain damage. Each patient is different.

How can I tell if my loved one is mentally disabled?
Mental disabilities range across a broad spectrum of developmental and intellectual conditions. When assessing handicaps, it is important that you first speak with a medical professional. Some symptoms may include speech disabilities, complications with movement, and in some cases, delayed motor skills and movement.

How can mental or developmental delays be treated?
There are some treatments available for mental disabilities, and a medical professional can help determine which may be the best for your loved one's specific needs. Medicine, rehabilitation, treatment and education of the family can all boost quality of life.

How can these conditions be managed?
When managing mental conditions, most families will need to ensure that they understand the disability as much as possible. Support from family members and doctors can greatly increase a person's quality of life. Of course, in-home care and support can help as well. Quality Respite and Home Care, Inc. can provide your loved one with the care that he or she deserves during school, after school, or in the form of senior activities.

How do I get my loved on the help that he or she needs?
If you have a feeling that your loved one may have a mental condition, or if you are looking for additional help caring for your loved one, it is important that you contact Quality Respite and Home Care, Inc. We can provide trusted in-home care for your family member.

Contact Quality Respite and Home Care, Inc. to learn more about our services!

At Quality Respite and Home Care, Inc., we have been able to assist families throughout the Alameda County and the Santa Clara area for years. Our founder has direct experience with a disabled loved one and created Quality Respite and Home Care, Inc. to help provide the care that people need and want to give to their mentally disabled family members.

When you work with our trusted staff, you can be confident that your loved one is receiving the care that he or she needs. Our employees have all cleared extensive background checks and are certified in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid. If you have questions about your situation, do not hesitate to contact Quality Respite and Home Care, Inc. today and speak with a member of our team.

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