<p>Dstark-I remember when my D was diagnosed with learning disabilities and an IQ in the low 70s in second grade. It was like a knife through the heart. They told me she would not make it through high school with a regular diploma. What they didn’t tell me was that the learning disabilities were bringing down the IQ score and it was not a true reflection of her actual abilities. It wasn’t easy, but she graduated from high school and is now thriving at a small LAC. While your D may have more limits, she may be able to function more independently and take on small increases in responsibility to prepare for the inevitable time when you are gone.</p>
<p>I work as a nurse at a hospital for kids and young adults with developmental disabilities and co-occurring psychiatric disorders. We serve patients with a wide range of intellectual functioning. One thing that has always struck me is that IQ is not a good indication of a persons actual level of functioning. I’ve seen some with IQs in the 60s who I would never know had a disability until I had a lengthy conversation with them. </p>
<p>We get many patients from group homes and other residential settings. They all appear well cared for. Im always amazed at how caring our staff is (it’s a big part of why I continue to work at this hospital), even with some of the most very aggressive patients. But sometimes we do miss things. Last week, we found a rash on a very large boy who is mostly independent and doesn’t like us looking at his body. I’m not defending defending the foot fungus issue. Clearly if someone is walking in an unusual manner it needs to be checked!!! But I wanted to let you know that the majority of staff at these homes really do care.</p>
<p>Also, have you heard of the Ticket to Work program? It allows people on SSI to explore work and earn money without a reduction in benefits. It might be worth checking out.</p>