There are many programs in Wisconsin that aim to improve the lives of children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. This page is intended to help people with developmental and intellectual disabilities and their parents find programs that meet their needs.
adult
Adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities should contact their local Elderly and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) for information about program options. Enrollment for all adult programs must be through the local ADRC.
For information about programs for adults, please visit our Programs for Adults with Developmental or Intellectual Disabilities page.
Federal Definition of Developmental Disability
A person is considered to meet the federal definition of a developmental disability if any of the following apply to him or her:
A level of intellectual disability as described by the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD). Associated conditions, as defined in 42 CFR § 435.1009, “individuals with associated conditions” are individuals with severe, chronic disabilities who meet all of the following criteria: Are caused by either cerebral palsy or epilepsy; Have any other condition, other than a psychiatric illness, that is known to be closely associated with intellectual disability because it results in impairments in general intellectual functioning or adaptive behavior similar to those required by individuals with intellectual disabilities and requires similar treatment or services as those required by such individuals; Have onset before the individual reaches age 22; Are likely to continue indefinitely; Result in significant functional limitations in three or more of the following major life activities: self-care, understanding and use of language, learning, mobility, self-direction, or independent living abilities.
Wisconsin’s definition of developmental disability is broader than the federal definition in that it does not include the restrictive clauses “b” (onset before age 22) and “d” (significant impairment) of the federal definition. To qualify for a home and community-based exemption for developmental disability, a consumer must meet the federal definition of a developmental disability.
The kids
Information about programs that assist families in caring for children with developmental and intellectual disabilities at home and in the community can be found on the Services for Children with Developmental Delays and Disabilities page.
Wisconsin’s definition of developmental disability
(Wisconsin Statutes 51.01(5)(a)-(b))
A “developmental disability” means a disability resulting from brain injury, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, Prader-Willi syndrome, intellectual disability, or other neurological condition that is closely related to intellectual disability or requires treatment similar to that required for persons with intellectual disability, that continues or is expected to continue indefinitely, and that poses a significant handicap to the affected individual.
“Developmental disorders” does not include dementia, which is primarily caused by degenerative brain diseases.