What is Cognitive Disability?: Definition, Types, and Helpful Resources

Living with a cognitive disability can take a significant financial and emotional toll on individuals and families. Cognitive disability can affect both children and adults and impact key functions, such as perception, attention, memory, language, and motor skills. 

A cognitive disability, or an intellectual disability, is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by significant intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior limitations. It can affect a person’s ability to think, reason, learn, problem-solve, and communicate effectively. 

Cognitive disabilities are typically diagnosed during childhood and can lead to challenges with everyday activities, such as learning, socializing, and taking care of oneself. The severity of cognitive disability can vary widely and impact people in different ways.

Various factors, including genetic, environmental, and medical causes may be among the factors that contribute to cognitive issues. Those with cognitive disabilities have unique strengths, abilities, and potential. With the appropriate support, they can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.

What are Examples of Cognitive Disorders?

Cognitive disability can manifest in different forms. Some common examples of cognitive disorders or other conditions that may lead to cognitive impairment include:

• Alzheimer’s disease
• Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity disorder
• Epilepsy-related cognitive dysfunction
• Dementia
• Normal pressure hydrocephalus
• Parkinson’s disease-related cognitive dysfunction
• Posterior cortical atrophy
• Primary progressive aphasia
• Stroke-related cognitive dysfunction
• Traumatic brain injury
• Multiple sclerosis
• Chemotherapy-related cognitive impairment (chemo-brain)

How to Apply for Cognitive Disability Benefits

People struggling with cognitive disabilities may require financial help. One option includes applying for public disability benefits. Some steps to apply for these benefits often include the following steps:

• Determine eligibility: You must meet the eligibility criteria to receive disability benefits. To qualify, you must have a medical condition that is severe enough to limit your ability to work or perform everyday activities.
• Seek a medical evaluation – This may involve a thorough assessment that determines whether you are struggling with cognitive decline. It may involve some cognitive impairment tests for disability, medical examinations, behavioral assessments, and cognitive testing. 
• Diagnosing the disability – Collecting the diagnosis documents, reports, medical records, and other relevant records is crucial for the claim process. Documentation is often required for support services and accommodation. 
• Follow up on your application: After submitting your application, follow up on its status to ensure it is being processed. You can do this by contacting the Social Security Administration office or by checking your application’s status online. 

You can apply for disability benefits online through the Social Security Administration’s website or by calling the local office at 1-800-772-1213. For guidance on the legal procedures, a disability lawyer can help guide you through the process since cognitive issues are unique to each person. An experienced lawyer can also be crucial if your initial application is denied. 

How to Help a Child with Cognitive Impairment

Supporting a child with cognitive impairments often requires a holistic approach considering their unique needs, strengths, and challenges. Some general strategies that can help a child may include:

• Seeking Professional Help: Consult with healthcare professionals, such as pediatricians, neurologists, or developmental specialists, to assess the child’s condition and develop a comprehensive care plan.
• Creating a Structured and Supportive Environment: Establish a consistent routine and environment that provides structure and predictability for the child. 
• Tailor Learning and Communication Approaches: Adapt educational and communication strategies to the child’s cognitive abilities. Use simple and concrete language, visual aids, and hands-on learning opportunities.
• Encourage Independence and Self-Care Skills: Help the child develop age-appropriate self-care skills, such as dressing, eating, and grooming, to the best of their ability. 

Other strategies may include social skill training, communication support, positive reinforcement, and family support to enhance children’s self-esteem and motivation.

Was Your Disability Benefits Denied? Contact Our Experienced Law Firm

Don’t hesitate to contact a Social Security Disability Lawyer if you have any life-disrupting health conditions, such as cognitive disorders. 

Call us at 215-464-7200 for a free consultation to evaluate your case and help you throughout the disability claim.