Regional Centers

From Lanterman Act, Sec 4512 (a) and Sec 4512 (l)

Sec 4512 (a):
“A ‘developmental disability’ means a disability that originates before an individual attains age 18 years, continues, or can be expected to continue, indefinitely, and constitutes a substantial disability for that individual. As defined by the Director of Developmental Services, in consultation with the Superintendent of Public Instruction, this term shall include intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism. This term shall also include disabling conditions found to be closely related to intellectual disability or to require treatment similar to that required for individuals with intellectual disability, but shall not include other handicapping conditions that are solely physical in nature.”

Sec 4512 (l):
“‘Substantial disability’ means the existence of significant functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity, as determined by a regional center, and as appropriate to the age of the person:
(1) Self-care.
(2) Receptive and expressive language.
(3) Learning.
(4) Mobility.
(5) Self-direction.
(6) Capacity for independent living.
(7) Economic self-sufficiency.”

Individuals with autistic disorder often experience notable delays in language development, face social and communication difficulties, and may exhibit behaviors and interests that are unusual or repetitive. Additionally, many people with autism have intellectual disabilities. The condition typically manifests before the age of 3 and continues throughout life, though symptoms may show improvement as time goes on.

Epilepsy, often known as seizure disorder, refers to the condition where individuals experience repeated seizures. These seizures are caused by unusual electrical activity in the brain, leading to involuntary changes in movement, sensations, awareness, or behavior. Seizure symptoms can range from brief sensory disruptions and unconsciousness to convulsions and staring spells. Various brain-related conditions can cause epilepsy, though in many cases, a specific cause is not identifiable. Importantly, epilepsy is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another.

Intellectual disability is defined by both significantly lower-than-average cognitive abilities and challenges in daily functioning, such as communication, self-care, and interacting in social or school settings. It is sometimes called a cognitive disability or formerly referred to as mental retardation.

While children with intellectual disabilities can learn new skills, their development tends to progress more slowly compared to children with average intellectual and adaptive abilities. Intellectual disability varies in severity, from mild to profound, and an individual’s level of disability can be measured through their IQ score or the extent of assistance they require to manage daily tasks.