What is a learning disability?
A learning disability affects the way a person understands information and how they communicate. This means they can have difficulty:
- Understanding new or complex information
- Learning new skills
- Coping independently
Described by Mencap, a learning disability is a reduced intellectual ability and difficulty with everyday activities. People with a learning disability tend to take longer to learn and may need support to develop new skills, understand complicated information, and interact with other people.
(Information taken from: Mencap)
A learning disability can be mild, moderate, or severe. Some individuals with a mild learning disability can talk easily and look after themselves but may need a bit longer than usual to learn new skills. Other individuals may not be able to communicate at all and have other disabilities as well. Some adults with a learning disability are able to live independently, while others need help with everyday tasks, such as washing and dressing, for their whole lives. It depends on the person’s abilities and the level of care and support they receive. Children and young people with a learning disability may also have special educational needs (SEN).
(Information taken from: NIDirect)
How we support those with a learning disability
The team at SOS Care Services understand the importance of identifying and offering the right support to those living with a learning disability. In order to identify the best approach in offering support to those living with a learning disability, SOS Care Services will ensure that a person-centered approach is used, enabling the team to create a robust care plan that is personal to the individual.
SOS Care Services also acknowledge the importance of communication. Our team will adapt and consider their tone of voice, body language , and words used in order to establish and maintain communication with the person we are supporting.
Please click the image below to read the Learning Disabilities Core Skills Education and Training Framework for more information:
